CPT code 93312 refers to a special type of heart test using an ultrasound device that’s inserted through the mouth and down into the esophagus to get clear images of the heart. CPT 93312 represents “Echocardiography, transesophageal, real-time with image documentation (2D) (with or without M-mode recording); including probe placement, image acquisition, interpretation and report.”
Procedure Explanation:
This procedure, called transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), involves placing a small probe down the throat into the esophagus to take pictures of the heart. It includes putting the probe in, gathering the heart images, analyzing them, and writing a report. Other procedures that might be associated with this are not included.
Common Names:
- TEE
- Transesophageal Echo
- Heart Ultrasound via Esophagus
Relative Value Units (RVU):
The RVUs associated with this code are 2.3.
How This Procedure Appears:
- Operating Room Schedule Name: Heart Ultrasound via Esophagus
- Surgical Consent Form Name: Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE)
Typical Patients and Diagnoses:
This procedure is often used for patients who have symptoms or conditions related to heart issues, such as unexplained chest pain, heart valve problems, or irregular heartbeats. For example, a doctor might suggest this test for someone experiencing shortness of breath or before certain heart surgeries.
Associated ICD-10 Codes:
- I34.0: Nonrheumatic mitral (valve) insufficiency, a condition where the heart valve doesn’t close properly, causing blood to flow backward in the heart.
- I35.0: Aortic (valve) stenosis, which is the narrowing of one of the heart’s valves that can restrict blood flow.
- I50.1: Left ventricular failure, where the heart’s main pumping chamber fails to pump effectively.
Summary
In summary, code 93312 describes a procedure that helps doctors closely examine the heart through ultrasound images taken from the esophagus. Typical ICD-10 codes associated with 93312 include I34.0 (problems with the mitral valve) and I35.0 (narrowing of the aortic valve).
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.