How To Use CPT Code 97610

CPT 97610 describes the use of low frequency, non-contact, non-thermal ultrasound for wound assessment and ongoing care. 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 97610?

CPT 97610 can be used to describe the use of low frequency, non-contact, non-thermal ultrasound for wound assessment and ongoing care. This code is used when a healthcare provider utilizes an ultrasound device to try to improve wound healing. The provider assesses the patient’s wound and uses the ultrasound device, holding it one centimeter away from the wound, to remove necrotic tissue from chronic wounds and stimulate closure of non-healing wounds. Topical applications may also be performed, and the provider gives instructions on proper care of the wound.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 97610 is: ‘Low frequency, non-contact, non-thermal ultrasound, including topical application(s), when performed, wound assessment, and instruction(s) for ongoing care, per day.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider assesses the patient’s wound.
2. The provider holds a low frequency ultrasound device one centimeter away from the wound.
3. The ultrasound device may generate a saline mist to carry low levels of ultrasonic energy into the wound.
4. The provider uses the ultrasound device to remove necrotic tissue from chronic wounds and stimulate closure of non-healing wounds.
5. Topical applications may be performed during the procedure.
6. The provider gives instructions on proper care of the wound.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 97610 is used for patients with chronic wounds or non-healing wounds that require assessment and ongoing care. The healthcare provider must use a low frequency, non-contact, non-thermal ultrasound device and may perform topical applications. The procedure is typically performed by a qualified healthcare provider who has the necessary training and expertise in wound care.

5. When to use CPT code 97610

CPT code 97610 should be used when a healthcare provider utilizes low frequency, non-contact, non-thermal ultrasound for wound assessment and ongoing care. It is appropriate to bill this code for each day the procedure is performed. However, it is important to note that this code should not be reported if other wound care management codes (97597-97610) have already been performed in the previous seven days.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 97610, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s wound assessment
• Specific details of the ultrasound device used
• Date of service
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Topical applications performed, if any
• Instructions given for ongoing wound care
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 97610, ensure that the healthcare provider uses a low frequency, non-contact, non-thermal ultrasound device for wound assessment and ongoing care. Report the code once per date of service. It is important to note that this code should not be reported if other wound care management codes (97597-97610) have already been performed in the previous seven days. Consider the location of the testing when coding these procedures, as there may be separate codes for the professional and technical components.

8. Historical information

CPT 97610 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2014. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A wound care specialist using low frequency, non-contact, non-thermal ultrasound to assess and provide ongoing care for a patient’s chronic wound.
2. A nurse utilizing a low frequency ultrasound device to remove necrotic tissue and stimulate closure of a non-healing wound.
3. A physical therapist performing topical applications and giving instructions on wound care using a low frequency, non-contact, non-thermal ultrasound device.
4. A wound care nurse using low frequency ultrasound to assess and provide ongoing care for a patient’s surgical wound.
5. A healthcare provider utilizing low frequency, non-contact, non-thermal ultrasound to assess and provide ongoing care for a patient’s diabetic foot ulcer.
6. A wound care specialist performing topical applications and giving instructions on wound care using a low frequency ultrasound device for a patient with a pressure ulcer.
7. A nurse using low frequency, non-contact, non-thermal ultrasound to assess and provide ongoing care for a patient’s venous stasis ulcer.