CPT code 93306 refers to a detailed ultrasound method that looks at how the heart works, using images and sound waves to assess heart function and blood flow. CPT 93306 represents “Echocardiography, transthoracic, real-time with image documentation (2D), includes M-mode recording, when performed, complete, with spectral Doppler echocardiography, and with color flow Doppler echocardiography.”
Procedure Explanation:
This procedure is a type of heart ultrasound where the doctor uses a special tool to take two-dimensional pictures of your heart, watch it work in real-time, and check how blood is flowing through it. This method also includes a special technique known as M-mode recording if needed. What makes it complete is that it uses different tools to measure sound frequencies (spectral Doppler echocardiography) and assess color changes in blood flow (color flow Doppler echocardiography). It does not involve more invasive methods or procedures beyond these imaging techniques.
Common Names:
- Transthoracic Echocardiogram (TTE)
- Heart Ultrasound
- Echocardiography
Relative Value Units (RVU):
The RVUs associated with this code are 1.46.
How This Procedure Appears:
- Operating Room Schedule Name: Heart Ultrasound with Doppler Analysis
- Surgical Consent Form Name: Echo with Color Flow and Doppler Study
Typical Patients and Diagnoses:
This procedure is commonly used for patients who might be experiencing symptoms like shortness of breath or chest pain. It helps doctors assess and diagnose heart conditions such as heart valve problems, heart failure, or other cardiac issues. For instance, if someone is feeling fatigued and having trouble breathing, their doctor may use this test to check for heart problems.
Associated ICD-10 Codes:
- I50.9: Heart failure, unspecified, refers to a condition where the heart does not pump blood as well as it should.
- I34.0: Nonrheumatic mitral (valve) insufficiency, which means the valve in the heart isn’t closing properly, allowing blood to flow backward.
- I05.0: Rheumatic mitral stenosis, involving a narrowing of the heart’s mitral valve due to rheumatic fever complications.
Summary
In summary, code 93306 describes a comprehensive heart ultrasound method that checks heart structure and function using different imaging techniques. Typical ICD-10 codes associated with 93306 include I50.9 (Heart failure, unspecified) and I34.0 (Mitral valve issues).
Disclaimer
This post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. “CPT” and CPT Codes are registered trademarks of the American Medical Association. HCPCS codes are managed by Medicare and are not subject to copyright.
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