How To Use CPT Code 76982

CPT 76982 describes the use of ultrasound elastography to assess the elasticity of a suspicious lesion and determine whether it is benign or malignant. 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 76982?

CPT 76982 can be used to describe the use of ultrasound elastography to evaluate the elasticity of a suspicious lesion. This code is used when the provider applies pressure to the area of the lesion using the ultrasound probe and captures multiple images to measure the displacement of tissue and the time it takes for the tissue to return to its normal shape. By analyzing the degree of displacement, the provider can determine whether the lesion is benign or malignant.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 76982 is: ‘Ultrasound, elastography; first target lesion.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider applies gel over the area of the body where the suspicious lesion is located.
2. Using the ultrasound probe, the provider applies pressure to the area of the lesion.
3. High-intensity ultrasound waves are used to distort the tissue, and multiple images are captured.
4. The provider measures the displacement of tissue and the time it takes for the tissue to return to its normal shape.
5. Various formulas are used to calculate the degree of displacement and determine the elasticity of the tissue.
6. Nonmalignant tumors display more elasticity than cancerous tumors, while fibrotic tissue shows less elasticity and is slower to resume its normal shape.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 76982 is used when the provider performs ultrasound elastography on the first target lesion to assess its elasticity. This procedure is typically done to determine whether the lesion is benign or malignant. The provider applies pressure to the area of the lesion using the ultrasound probe and captures multiple images to measure the displacement of tissue and the time it takes for the tissue to return to its normal shape. The elasticity of the tissue is then calculated using various formulas.

5. When to use CPT code 76982

CPT code 76982 should be used when the provider performs ultrasound elastography on the first target lesion to assess its elasticity. This code is appropriate when the procedure is done to determine whether the lesion is benign or malignant. It should not be used for other types of ultrasound procedures or when assessing the elasticity of additional lesions.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 76982, the provider must document the following information:

• Description of the suspicious lesion and the need for ultrasound elastography
• Date and time of the procedure
• Details of the procedure, including the application of gel, pressure applied to the lesion, and the capture of multiple images
• Measurement of tissue displacement and the time it takes for the tissue to return to its normal shape
• Calculation of tissue elasticity using appropriate formulas
• Comparison of the elasticity to determine whether the lesion is benign or malignant
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 76982, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for this code. The provider should perform ultrasound elastography on the first target lesion to assess its elasticity. It is important to note that CPT 76982 should not be reported with other codes for additional lesions or when assessing the elasticity of an organ’s functional tissue. It is also recommended to review the specific guidelines and tips provided by the payer to ensure accurate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT 76982 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2019. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A radiologist performing ultrasound elastography on a suspicious breast lesion to determine whether it is benign or malignant.
2. An oncologist using ultrasound elastography to assess the elasticity of a liver tumor and guide treatment decisions.
3. A urologist performing ultrasound elastography on a prostate lesion to aid in the diagnosis of prostate cancer.
4. A gastroenterologist using ultrasound elastography to evaluate the elasticity of a pancreatic mass and determine the need for further intervention.
5. A dermatologist performing ultrasound elastography on a skin lesion to assess its elasticity and guide the decision for a biopsy.
6. A gynecologist using ultrasound elastography to evaluate the elasticity of an ovarian cyst and determine the appropriate management approach.
7. A surgeon performing ultrasound elastography on a thyroid nodule to assess its elasticity and guide the decision for surgery.
8. An orthopedic specialist using ultrasound elastography to evaluate the elasticity of a soft tissue tumor in the extremities.
9. A cardiologist performing ultrasound elastography on a cardiac mass to assess its elasticity and determine the need for further investigation.
10. A neurologist using ultrasound elastography to evaluate the elasticity of a brain lesion and aid in the diagnosis of a neurological condition.