CPT code 93320 refers to a specialized ultrasound test used to evaluate the heart’s function using sound waves. CPT 93320 represents “Doppler echocardiography, pulsed wave and/or continuous wave with spectral display (List separately in addition to codes for echocardiographic imaging); complete.”
Procedure Explanation:
This procedure is known as Doppler echocardiography and involves the use of sound waves to create images and assess the flow of blood through the heart. Unlike standard echocardiography, this test measures the speed and direction of blood flow, helping doctors understand how well the heart is working. This particular code covers the complete examination with specific technical patterns but does not include the visual imaging part of the echocardiogram, which is often billed separately.
Common Names:
- Doppler Echo
- Pulsed Wave Doppler
- Continuous Wave Doppler
Relative Value Units (RVU):
The RVUs associated with this code are 0.38.
How This Procedure Appears:
- Operating Room Schedule Name: Heart Doppler Test
- Surgical Consent Form Name: Doppler Heart Ultrasound
Typical Patients and Diagnoses:
This procedure is often used for patients with suspected heart issues, such as those experiencing symptoms like shortness of breath or chest pain. It’s commonly used for diagnosing conditions like heart valve problems or assessing the severity of heart disease. An example might be an elderly patient with a history of heart murmur who needs a detailed analysis of blood flow through their heart valves.
Associated ICD-10 Codes:
- I34.0: Mitral Valve Insufficiency, which is when the heart’s mitral valve doesn’t close tightly, allowing blood to flow backward in the heart.
- I35.0: Aortic Valve Stenosis, which refers to narrowing of the aortic valve that can restrict blood flow from the heart.
- I42.9: Cardiomyopathy, unspecified, which means a disease of the heart muscle that makes it harder for the heart to pump blood.
Summary
In summary, code 93320 describes a Doppler ultrasound procedure used to evaluate blood flow through the heart. Typical ICD-10 codes associated with 93320 include I34.0 (Mitral Valve Insufficiency) and I35.0 (Aortic Valve Stenosis).
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.