How To Use CPT Code 76998

CPT 76998 describes the use of ultrasound guidance during a surgical procedure to examine organs and tissues for abnormalities. 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 76998?

CPT 76998 can be used to describe the use of ultrasound guidance by a healthcare provider during a surgical procedure to examine organs and tissues for abnormalities. This code is used when the provider uses an intraoperative transducer to obtain real-time images and guide their actions during the procedure.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 76998 is: ‘Ultrasonic guidance, intraoperative.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider applies an acoustic gel to the end of an intraoperative transducer.
2. The provider covers the end of the probe with a sterile, snug-fitting cover.
3. He inserts the transducer through a previously made incision and presses it against the organ or tissue being examined.
4. The provider manipulates the probe, using surface moisture or sterile saline to facilitate its movement.
5. Once the ultrasound examination is complete, the provider removes the probe and continues with the surgical procedure.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 76998 is used when ultrasound guidance is necessary during a surgical procedure to examine organs and tissues for abnormalities. This code should only be reported when the ultrasound guidance is performed intraoperatively and not during separate imaging procedures. It is important to note that CPT 76998 should not be reported in conjunction with certain other codes, such as 36475, 36479, 37760, 37761, 46948, 47370, 47371, 47380, 47381, 47382, 0515T, 0516T, 0517T, 0518T, 0519T, or 0520T.

5. When to use CPT code 76998

CPT code 76998 should be used when ultrasound guidance is necessary during a surgical procedure to examine organs and tissues for abnormalities. It is important to ensure that the ultrasound guidance is performed intraoperatively and not during separate imaging procedures. If the descriptor for the surgical procedure already includes ultrasound imaging, CPT code 76998 should not be reported separately.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 76998, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the use of ultrasound guidance during the surgical procedure
• Details of the ultrasound guidance technique used
• Date and duration of the ultrasound guidance
• Specific organs or tissues examined using ultrasound guidance
• Findings or abnormalities identified during the ultrasound examination
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the ultrasound guidance

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 76998, ensure that the ultrasound guidance is performed intraoperatively and not during separate imaging procedures. It is important to review the specific guidelines of payers regarding the use of modifier 52 or modifier TC when reporting CPT 76998. Additionally, be aware of the codes that should not be reported in conjunction with CPT 76998. It is recommended to consult the payer’s policies and guidelines for accurate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT 76998 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2007. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A surgeon using ultrasound guidance during a laparoscopic procedure to locate and stage a tumor.
2. An interventional radiologist using ultrasound guidance to guide a biopsy procedure.
3. A urologist using ultrasound guidance during a surgical procedure to cannulate ducts.
4. A gastroenterologist using ultrasound guidance to drain an abscess or cyst.
5. A vascular surgeon using ultrasound guidance during a surgical procedure to document arterial and venous patency.
6. An orthopedic surgeon using ultrasound guidance to guide the placement of a needle during a musculoskeletal procedure.
7. An anesthesiologist using ultrasound guidance to access a vein for intravenous catheter placement.
8. A cardiologist using ultrasound guidance to evaluate potential access sites for vascular procedures.
9. A radiologist using ultrasound guidance to guide a needle biopsy of a breast mass.
10. A neurosurgeon using ultrasound guidance to guide the placement of a ventricular catheter during a brain surgery.