How To Use CPT Code 93886
CPT 93886 describes the non-invasive diagnostic ultrasound evaluation of the intracranial arteries using the Doppler technique. 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 93886?
CPT 93886 is used to describe a non-invasive diagnostic ultrasound evaluation of the intracranial arteries. This procedure utilizes the Doppler technique to study the flow and speed of blood through the arteries inside the head. It is performed to assess blood flow to the brain and to detect any artery occlusion or stenosis that could lead to cerebrovascular diseases such as stroke and brain hemorrhages. This code may also be used as a screening study for children with specific conditions like sickle cell anemia.
2. Official Description
The official description of CPT code 93886 is: ‘Transcranial Doppler study of the intracranial arteries; complete study.’
3. Procedure
- The provider applies a gel to the skin over the base of the skull and the area over the ears to improve contact between the transducer and the skin.
- Using a handheld ultrasound transducer, the provider holds it in place on the skin’s surface to record blood flow information.
- In a complete study, the provider evaluates the right and left anterior circulation territories and the posterior circulation territory, including the vertebral arteries and basilar artery.
4. Qualifying circumstances
CPT 93886 is performed when there is a need to assess blood flow to the brain and detect any artery occlusion or stenosis. It is typically ordered by providers to evaluate patients with symptoms or conditions that may indicate cerebrovascular diseases, such as stroke or brain hemorrhages. This procedure is considered non-invasive and does not require a surgical incision.
5. When to use CPT code 93886
CPT code 93886 should be used when a complete transcranial Doppler study of the intracranial arteries is performed. This includes the evaluation of the right and left anterior circulation territories and the posterior circulation territory, including the vertebral arteries and basilar artery. It is important to ensure that all the required components of the study are documented to support the use of this code.
6. Documentation requirements
To support a claim for CPT 93886, the provider must document the following information:
- Ultrasound evaluation of the right and left anterior circulation territories
- Ultrasound evaluation of the posterior circulation territory, including the vertebral arteries and basilar artery
7. Billing guidelines
When billing for CPT 93886, it is important to ensure that the complete study is performed, including the evaluation of the specified territories. This code should not be reported with other codes that represent components of the complete transcranial Doppler study. It is essential to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer and use appropriate modifiers if necessary.
8. Historical information
CPT 93886 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
- A patient with a history of stroke undergoes a complete transcranial Doppler study to assess blood flow in the intracranial arteries.
- A child with sickle cell anemia receives a complete transcranial Doppler study as a screening measure for cerebrovascular diseases.
- A patient with symptoms of brain hemorrhage undergoes a complete transcranial Doppler study to evaluate blood flow in the intracranial arteries.
- An individual with suspected artery occlusion undergoes a complete transcranial Doppler study to detect any blockages or closures in the intracranial arteries.
- A patient with a history of stenosis in the vertebral arteries receives a complete transcranial Doppler study to assess blood flow in the intracranial arteries.
