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Radiology Coding Alert

Reader Questions:

Stick to 76946 for Amnio Guidance

Published on Sun May 09, 2010

Question: Our multi-specialty clinic recently added an ob-gyn. The radiologist performed ultrasound guidance to assist the ob-gyn during an amniocentesis. Should we report a needle-guidance code or unlisted code for this service?Nevada SubscriberAnswer: CPT offers a code specific to the service you describe: 76946 (Ultrasonic guidance for amniocentesis, imaging supervision and interpretation). So you should report 76946 rather than a less specific needle-guidance or unlisted-procedure code. For amniocentesis guidance, the physician uses the ultrasound to help the ob-gyn visualize needle placement as she extracts the amniotic fluid sample from the pregnant uterus. The guidance allows the ob-gyn to avoid needle contact with the fetus.Bonus tip: When a patient is pregnant with twins, the ob-gyn may perform amniocentesis twice at the same encounter. But experts state you still should report ultrasound guidance only once.
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