How To Use CPT Code 76882

CPT 76882 describes the limited ultrasound evaluation of nonvascular extremity structures, such as joint spaces, tendons, muscles, nerves, soft-tissue structures, or soft-tissue masses. This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 76882?

CPT 76882 can be used to describe a limited ultrasound evaluation of nonvascular extremity structures. This code is used when the provider uses ultrasound to examine one or more specific structures in an extremity, such as joint spaces, tendons, muscles, nerves, soft-tissue structures, or soft-tissue masses. The ultrasound image is generated in real-time and documented in the medical record.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 76882 is: ‘Ultrasound, limited, joint or focal evaluation of other nonvascular extremity structure(s) (eg, joint space, peri-articular tendon[s], muscle[s], nerve[s], other soft-tissue structure[s], or soft-tissue mass[es]), real-time with image documentation.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient and applies gel to the target area to enhance the connection between the tissues and the transducer head.
2. The provider uses a transducer to emit sound waves that bounce off the body tissues and create echoes.
3. The transducer receives the echoes and sends them to a computer, which uses them to create a real-time ultrasound image.
4. The provider places the transducer head on the skin of the target area, such as a joint space, tendon, muscle, nerve, soft-tissue structure, or soft-tissue mass.
5. The provider performs a limited evaluation of the specific structure(s) of interest.
6. The real-time ultrasound image is displayed on a monitor, and a permanent copy is made and documented in the medical record.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 76882 is used for patients who require a limited ultrasound evaluation of nonvascular extremity structures. This may include individuals with joint pain, muscle or tendon injuries, nerve entrapment, or soft-tissue masses. The provider must use real-time ultrasound imaging to evaluate the specific structure(s) of interest.

5. When to use CPT code 76882

CPT code 76882 should be used when the provider performs a limited ultrasound evaluation of nonvascular extremity structures. This code is appropriate when the provider focuses on specific structures, such as joint spaces, tendons, muscles, nerves, soft-tissue structures, or soft-tissue masses. It should not be used for complete joint evaluations or comprehensive assessments of extremity nerves.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 76882, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the ultrasound evaluation and the specific structure(s) being assessed
• Preparation of the patient and application of gel
• Date and time of the procedure
• Details of the limited evaluation performed
• Real-time ultrasound image documentation
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 76882, ensure that the provider performs a limited ultrasound evaluation of nonvascular extremity structures. This code should not be reported in conjunction with CPT code 76883, which is used for the evaluation of entire extremity nerves. If reporting only the physician’s interpretation, append modifier 26 to the radiology code. If reporting only the technical component, append modifier TC to the radiology code. However, note that payer policies may exempt hospitals from appending modifier TC. When reporting a global service, in which one provider renders both the professional and technical components, do not append a professional or technical modifier to the radiology code.

8. Historical information

CPT 76882 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2011. Since its addition, there have been no updates or changes to the code.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs a limited ultrasound evaluation of a patient’s knee joint to assess for any abnormalities or injuries.
2. During an examination, the provider uses ultrasound to evaluate the tendons and muscles in a patient’s shoulder to diagnose a potential rotator cuff tear.
3. A provider uses ultrasound to assess the nerves in a patient’s wrist to determine the presence of carpal tunnel syndrome.
4. During a sports physical, the provider performs a limited ultrasound evaluation of a patient’s ankle joint to rule out any ligament or tendon injuries.
5. A provider uses ultrasound to evaluate a soft-tissue mass in a patient’s thigh to determine if it is benign or requires further investigation.
6. During a prenatal visit, the provider performs a limited ultrasound evaluation of a patient’s hip joint to assess for any developmental abnormalities.
7. A provider uses ultrasound to evaluate the nerves in a patient’s foot to diagnose the cause of their persistent numbness and tingling.
8. During a follow-up appointment, the provider performs a limited ultrasound evaluation of a patient’s elbow joint to monitor the healing progress of a previous injury.
9. A provider uses ultrasound to assess the muscles and tendons in a patient’s hand to diagnose the cause of their chronic pain and limited range of motion.
10. During a physical therapy session, the provider performs a limited ultrasound evaluation of a patient’s calf muscles to guide the application of therapeutic interventions.