How To Use CPT Code 76529

CPT 76529 describes the use of ophthalmic ultrasound to locate a foreign body within the eye. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 76529?

CPT 76529 is used to describe the procedure of using ophthalmic ultrasound to locate a foreign body within the eye. This code is typically used when a foreign object is suspected to be present in the eye as a result of trauma or surgery. The provider utilizes high frequency sound waves to examine the eye structure and diagnose any disorders or abnormalities.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 76529 is: ‘Ophthalmic ultrasonic foreign body localization.’ This code specifically refers to the use of ophthalmic ultrasound to locate a foreign body within the globe or eyeball.

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by using ophthalmic ultrasound, also known as ocular echography, to examine the eye structure and diagnose any disorders or abnormalities.
2. During the procedure, the provider may use B scan ultrasound, which provides a cross-sectional, two-dimensional view of the eye structure. This is particularly helpful in identifying retinal detachment, vitreous bleeding, tumors, or foreign bodies within the eye socket.
3. The provider places the ultrasound probe on the eye and transmits an oscillating sound beam into the eye.
4. The echoes that return are displayed as a series of dots on a screen, forming an image of the eye structure.
5. The provider carefully examines the image to locate any foreign bodies within the eye, often following a track to the foreign body.
6. During the procedure, the provider may also identify other conditions such as retinal and choroidal detachments, vitreous hemorrhage, and posterior exit wounds, which are all documented as part of the findings.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 76529 is typically performed when there is a suspicion of a foreign body within the eye due to trauma or surgery. The procedure is carried out by a provider who is skilled in ophthalmic ultrasound and has the necessary equipment to perform the examination. The provider must use the ultrasound to specifically locate the foreign body within the eye.

5. When to use CPT code 76529

CPT code 76529 should be used when a provider utilizes ophthalmic ultrasound to locate a foreign body within the eye. This code is appropriate when there is a suspicion of a foreign body due to trauma or surgery, and the provider specifically performs the ultrasound examination to locate the foreign body.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 76529, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the examination, such as suspected foreign body due to trauma or surgery
• Details of the ophthalmic ultrasound procedure performed
• Findings from the examination, including the presence and location of the foreign body, as well as any other identified conditions
• Signature of the provider who performed the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 76529, ensure that the provider has performed the ophthalmic ultrasound to specifically locate a foreign body within the eye. This code should not be reported with other codes for foreign body removal procedures unless they are performed separately. It is important to follow payer policies regarding the use of modifiers, such as professional component modifier 26 or technical component modifier TC, when reporting the service.

8. Historical information

CPT 76529 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient presents to the ophthalmologist with a history of eye trauma. The ophthalmologist performs ophthalmic ultrasound to locate a suspected foreign body within the eye.
2. Following eye surgery, a patient complains of persistent discomfort. The ophthalmologist utilizes ophthalmic ultrasound to identify the presence and location of any residual foreign bodies.
3. A patient reports sudden vision loss after an accident. The ophthalmologist performs ophthalmic ultrasound to determine if a foreign body is causing the vision loss.
4. During a routine eye examination, the ophthalmologist detects a suspicious object within the eye. Ophthalmic ultrasound is used to precisely locate and identify the foreign body.
5. A patient presents with symptoms of eye irritation and redness. The ophthalmologist performs ophthalmic ultrasound to rule out the presence of a foreign body.
6. Following a workplace accident, a patient is referred to an ophthalmologist for evaluation. Ophthalmic ultrasound is used to locate and assess any foreign bodies within the eye.
7. A patient with a history of eye surgery experiences persistent pain. Ophthalmic ultrasound is performed to determine if a foreign body is causing the discomfort.
8. During a routine eye examination, the ophthalmologist suspects the presence of a foreign body. Ophthalmic ultrasound is used to confirm the location and nature of the foreign body.
9. A patient presents with a history of eye trauma and reports ongoing discomfort. Ophthalmic ultrasound is performed to locate and assess any foreign bodies within the eye.
10. Following a surgical procedure, a patient complains of blurred vision. Ophthalmic ultrasound is used to identify any foreign bodies that may be causing the visual disturbance.