CPT® Code 76982

Ultrasound elastography is a specialized imaging procedure that utilizes ultrasound technology to assess the elastic properties of soft tissues, including lesions within various organs. This technique is particularly valuable for evaluating the parenchyma, which refers to the functional tissue of an organ, such as the liver, breast, thyroid, prostate, and muscles. By measuring the stiffness or elasticity of these tissues, healthcare providers can gain critical diagnostic insights into potential diseases or abnormalities. There are several elastography ultrasound (EUS) techniques employed to create both qualitative and quantitative images of the target tissue. One common method is strain elastography, which visualizes tissue elasticity in real-time by applying low-frequency compression through a handheld ultrasound transducer or by utilizing natural physiological movements, such as breathing or pulsation, to induce tissue displacement. This approach is primarily used for musculoskeletal imaging. Another technique, known as acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) elastography, involves the use of focused ultrasound pulses to internally excite the tissue, resulting in a color-coded or gray-scale image that reflects tissue stiffness. ARFI is particularly effective for deep-tissue imaging, including assessments of the liver, thyroid, and breast. Additionally, shear wave elasticity imaging (SWEI) employs ultrasound waves that travel sideways through the tissue to generate images, making it suitable for deep-tissue evaluations. A variant of SWEI, called transient vibration controlled elastography, utilizes short bursts of vibration to enhance imaging of the liver. It is important to note that CPT® Code 76981 is designated for the evaluation of a parenchymal organ and any specific lesions within that organ, while CPT® Code 76982 is used for the evaluation of a specific soft tissue lesion or the first lesion in a different organ. For each additional target lesion, CPT® Code 76983 should be utilized.