CPT® Code 0508T

Code Deleted. See 76999.

Official Description

Pulse-echo ultrasound bone density measurement resulting in indicator of axial bone mineral density, tibia

Common Language Description

Pulse-echo ultrasound bone density measurement, identified by CPT® Code 0508T, is a non-invasive and non-ionizing screening technique designed to assess the risk of osteoporosis in patients. This method, also known as dual focus ultrasound (DFUS), focuses on measuring the cortical bone thickness specifically in the tibia. The procedure employs a single ultrasound transducer that transmits sound waves into the bone and captures the echoed sound waves that bounce back from the bone, muscle, and adipose soft tissue. The data collected from these echoes are processed using a specialized computer software algorithm, which estimates the bone mineral density (BMD) and provides a density index (DI). To ensure accurate results, the patient's biographical information, including age, sex, height, and weight, is input into the software prior to the measurement. The ultrasound transducer is connected to the computer via a USB port, and the transducer head is positioned over the tibia to obtain the measurements. The entire process is quick, taking approximately 30 seconds, with results being available immediately for both the patient and the clinician. DFUS boasts a reliability index of 90% for both sensitivity and specificity, making it a valuable tool in the initial screening for osteoporosis. In cases where DFUS indicates low bone density, patients may be referred for further evaluation through dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scans to confirm the findings.

1. Indications

The pulse-echo ultrasound bone density measurement is indicated for the following conditions:

Risk Assessment for Osteoporosis This procedure is performed to identify patients who may be at risk for developing osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weakened bones and an increased risk of fractures.

2. Procedure

The procedure for pulse-echo ultrasound bone density measurement involves several key steps to ensure accurate assessment of bone mineral density.

Step 1: Patient Preparation Prior to the procedure, the patient's biographical data, including age, sex, height, and weight, must be collected and entered into the computer software program. This information is crucial for the algorithm to accurately estimate bone mineral density.
Step 2: Equipment Setup The ultrasound transducer is connected to the computer's USB port. This connection allows the transducer to communicate with the software, enabling the collection and analysis of data during the measurement process.
Step 3: Positioning the Transducer The transducer head is applied directly over the tibia, the bone in the lower leg. Proper positioning is essential to obtain reliable measurements of the cortical bone thickness.
Step 4: Measurement Acquisition The DFUS measurements are obtained in approximately 30 seconds. During this time, the transducer emits sound waves into the bone and captures the echoed sound waves that return from the bone, muscle, and adipose tissue.
Step 5: Result Calculation The echoed sound data is processed by the computer software, which calculates the bone mineral density and density index. The results are generated immediately, providing timely information to both the patient and clinician.

3. Post-Procedure

After the pulse-echo ultrasound bone density measurement, patients receive immediate feedback regarding their bone density results. If the DFUS indicates low bone density, further evaluation may be necessary, typically involving a dual-energy x-ray absorbtiometry (DEXA) scan. This follow-up is important for confirming the initial findings and determining the appropriate course of action for the patient's bone health management.

Short Descr	PLS ECHO US B1 DNS MEAS TIB
Medium Descr	PLS ECHO US B1 DNS MEAS INDIC AXL B1 MIN DNS TIB
Long Descr	Pulse-echo ultrasound bone density measurement resulting in indicator of axial bone mineral density, tibia
Status Code	Carriers Price the Code
Global Days	XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC)	1 - Diagnostic Tests for Radiology Services
Multiple Procedures (51)	0 - No payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50)	0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions	09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82)	0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62)	0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66)	0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family	99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator	Procedure or Service, Not Discounted when Multiple
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS)	none
MUE	Not applicable/unspecified.