How To Use CPT Code 93882

CPT 93882 describes the non-invasive duplex scan of the extracranial arteries on one side of the body. This article will cover the description, official details, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 93882?

CPT 93882 can be used to describe a non-invasive duplex scan of the extracranial arteries on one side of the body. This procedure is performed to evaluate the arteries for stenosis or narrowing in patients who exhibit symptoms of stroke, transient ischemic attack, or other vascular abnormalities.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 93882 is a “Duplex scan of extracranial arteries; unilateral or limited study.” It is important to note that this code should not be reported in conjunction with CPT code 93895.

3. Procedure

1. During the procedure, a physician or technician places a probe on the skin surface.
2. The probe emits short ultrasonic pulses that travel into the body.
3. When the ultrasound pulse collides with soft tissue, it gets reflected and arrives back to the probe as an echo.
4. Echoes from stationary structures return with the same frequency, while echoes from moving targets, such as blood, return with a higher or lower frequency.
5. The scanner detects these frequency changes and calculates the speed and direction of blood flow.
6. Successive pulses and echoes create an image of the targeted plane in the body, allowing the provider to examine vascular flow in the extracranial arteries on one side.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 93882 is performed on patients who exhibit symptoms of stroke, transient ischemic attack, or other vascular abnormalities. The procedure evaluates the extracranial arteries for stenosis or narrowing. It is important to note that this code should not be reported with CPT code 93895.

5. When to use CPT code 93882

CPT code 93882 should be used when a non-invasive duplex scan of the extracranial arteries on one side is performed. It is important to note that this code should not be reported with CPT code 93895, which is used for a complete bilateral study.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 93882, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s symptoms or indications for the procedure
• Specific details of the duplex scan, including the side of the body examined
• Date and time of the procedure
• Findings and interpretation of the scan
• Signature of the performing provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 93882, ensure that the procedure is a non-invasive duplex scan of the extracranial arteries on one side. It is important to note that this code should not be reported with CPT code 93895. Additionally, it is essential to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer or insurance company.

8. Historical information

CPT 93882 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1992. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient presents with symptoms of a transient ischemic attack. The provider performs a non-invasive duplex scan of the extracranial arteries on one side to evaluate for stenosis or narrowing.
2. A patient exhibits signs of vascular abnormalities. The provider conducts a non-invasive duplex scan of the extracranial arteries on one side to assess blood flow and detect any potential issues.
3. A patient experiences symptoms of a stroke. The provider performs a non-invasive duplex scan of the extracranial arteries on one side to evaluate the arteries for any abnormalities or blockages.
4. A patient presents with symptoms that may indicate a vascular problem. The provider conducts a non-invasive duplex scan of the extracranial arteries on one side to assess blood flow and identify any potential issues.
5. A patient has a history of vascular abnormalities. The provider performs a non-invasive duplex scan of the extracranial arteries on one side to monitor the condition and detect any changes or progression.
6. A patient exhibits symptoms of a stroke. The provider conducts a non-invasive duplex scan of the extracranial arteries on one side to evaluate blood flow and identify any potential blockages or abnormalities.
7. A patient presents with symptoms of a transient ischemic attack. The provider performs a non-invasive duplex scan of the extracranial arteries on one side to assess blood flow and detect any potential issues.
8. A patient experiences symptoms that may indicate a vascular problem. The provider conducts a non-invasive duplex scan of the extracranial arteries on one side to evaluate blood flow and identify any potential abnormalities or blockages.
9. A patient has a history of vascular abnormalities. The provider performs a non-invasive duplex scan of the extracranial arteries on one side to monitor the condition and detect any changes or progression.
10. A patient exhibits symptoms of a stroke. The provider conducts a non-invasive duplex scan of the extracranial arteries on one side to evaluate blood flow and identify any potential blockages or abnormalities.