How To Use CPT Code 93892

CPT 93892 describes the non-invasive procedure of performing a transcranial Doppler study of the intracranial arteries to detect emboli without the use of intravenous microbubble injection. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 93892?

CPT 93892 is used to describe a non-invasive diagnostic ultrasound evaluation of the intracranial arteries. Specifically, it involves performing a transcranial Doppler study to study the flow and speed of blood through the arteries inside the head. This procedure does not involve the injection of a microbubble of saline or air to enhance the imaging. The primary purpose of this study is to detect emboli, which are intravascular masses that can potentially block arterial capillary beds.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 93892 is: ‘Transcranial Doppler study of the intracranial arteries; emboli detection without intravenous microbubble injection.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider applies a gel to the skin, typically at the base of the skull and over the ears, to improve contact between the transducer and the skin.
2. Using a transducer, the provider holds it in place on the skin’s surface to record blood flow information.
3. The provider performs a Doppler ultrasound, which involves emitting sound waves into the body and detecting the returning echoes from the tissues in the body.
4. The provider checks for emboli signals in the Doppler waveform without the use of microbubble injection.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 93892 is typically performed on patients who are suspected of having emboli in their intracranial arteries. This procedure is non-invasive and does not require any surgical incision. It is important to note that specialized equipment, hardware, software, and training are necessary to accurately detect embolic events.

5. When to use CPT code 93892

CPT code 93892 should be used when a provider performs a transcranial Doppler study of the intracranial arteries specifically for the purpose of detecting emboli, without the use of intravenous microbubble injection. It is important to ensure that the provider has the necessary expertise, equipment, and training to accurately perform this procedure.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 93892, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for performing the transcranial Doppler study
• Details of the procedure, including the use of gel, transducer placement, and Doppler ultrasound
• Findings from the study, specifically any emboli signals detected
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 93892, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. This includes performing a transcranial Doppler study for emboli detection without the use of intravenous microbubble injection. It is also important to note that CPT codes 93890, 93891, and 93893 do not represent components of the complete TCD code, 93886. Therefore, it is crucial to accurately report the specific code that corresponds to the procedure performed.

8. Historical information

CPT code 93892 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2005. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A neurologist performing a transcranial Doppler study to detect emboli in a patient with a history of stroke.
2. A cardiologist using transcranial Doppler to assess emboli in a patient with a suspected cardiac source of embolism.
3. A vascular surgeon performing a transcranial Doppler study to evaluate emboli in a patient with carotid artery stenosis.
4. An emergency medicine physician using transcranial Doppler to detect emboli in a patient with sickle cell anemia.
5. A neurosurgeon performing a transcranial Doppler study to assess emboli in a patient with a recent head injury.
6. A radiologist using transcranial Doppler to detect emboli in a patient with suspected intracranial hemorrhage.
7. A hematologist performing a transcranial Doppler study to evaluate emboli in a patient with a history of deep vein thrombosis.
8. A neurologist using transcranial Doppler to assess emboli in a patient with suspected vasospasm following a subarachnoid hemorrhage.
9. A neurosurgeon performing a transcranial Doppler study to detect emboli in a patient with suspected cerebral vasculitis.
10. An interventional radiologist using transcranial Doppler to evaluate emboli in a patient undergoing a carotid artery stenting procedure.