CPT code 93356 refers to a special technique used to assess how well the heart muscle is functioning by analyzing its movements. CPT 93356 represents “Myocardial strain imaging using speckle tracking-derived assessment of myocardial mechanics (List separately in addition to codes for echocardiography imaging).”
Procedure Explanation:
This procedure uses advanced imaging to create a visual representation of how the heart muscle contracts and expands, helping doctors evaluate its performance. It’s a specialized addition to a typical heart ultrasound, known as echocardiography, and focuses specifically on analyzing the strain or stretching of the heart muscle. This doesn’t include the basic echocardiography itself but is an add-on to it.
Common Names:
- Myocardial Strain Imaging
- Speckle Tracking Echocardiography
- Cardiac Strain Study
Relative Value Units (RVU):
The RVUs associated with this code are 0.24.
How This Procedure Appears:
- Operating Room Schedule Name: Heart Muscle Strain Analysis
- Surgical Consent Form Name: Consent for Myocardial Strain Evaluation
Typical Patients and Diagnoses:
This procedure is commonly used for patients who have conditions that affect the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively, such as heart failure, previous heart attacks, or ongoing heart valve issues. For instance, someone with unexplained fatigue or difficulty breathing might undergo this test to see if their heart muscle is not functioning properly.
Associated ICD-10 Codes:
- I50.9: This code is used for patients diagnosed with heart failure, a condition where the heart struggles to pump blood efficiently.
- I21.9: This code applies to those who have had a heart attack and need their heart function monitored.
- I35.0: This code represents aortic valve disorders, which can affect heart function and may necessitate further evaluation through strain imaging.
Summary
In summary, code 93356 describes an imaging procedure focused on evaluating the heart muscle’s performance. Typical ICD-10 codes associated with 93356 include I50.9 (heart failure) and I21.9 (heart attack).
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.