Code: 76830
Description: Transvaginal ultrasound, non-obstetric
Context: This code is used specifically for transvaginal ultrasound procedures that are non-obstetric in nature, focusing on the evaluation of female pelvic organs excluding the developing fetus or pregnancy.
Guidelines for Proper Use
- Specific Use for Non-Obstetric Transvaginal Ultrasound: Apply 76830 when a transvaginal ultrasound is performed to evaluate the female pelvic organs, such as the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes, excluding any obstetric assessment.
- Documentation of Procedure Purpose: Ensure that the healthcare provider’s documentation clearly indicates that the ultrasound was performed transvaginally and was focused on non-obstetric indications.
- Exclusion of Obstetric Evaluations: Do not use 76830 if the ultrasound is performed for obstetric purposes, such as evaluating the fetus or pregnancy. In such cases, specific obstetric ultrasound codes should be used.
- No Inclusion of Additional Procedures: If additional procedures or evaluations are performed during the same session (e.g., a biopsy or a Doppler study), these should be coded separately and not included under 76830.
- Compliance with Ultrasound Protocols: Use 76830 in accordance with standard ultrasound guidelines and protocols, as well as payer-specific rules.
Common Misuses of 76830
- Using for Obstetric Ultrasound: A common misuse is applying 76830 to obstetric ultrasound examinations. This code is strictly for non-obstetric purposes.
- Confusion with Abdominal Ultrasound: Misuse occurs if 76830 is used for abdominal ultrasounds. This code is specifically for transvaginal approach.
- Incorporating Unrelated Procedures: Applying 76830 to sessions where additional unrelated procedures are performed without using separate codes for those procedures.
