What Is the CPT Code Used for Performing a Liver Ultrasound and What Does It Include?

Correct CPT coding is crucial for ensuring accurate medical billing and smooth reimbursement. When it comes to imaging the liver, understanding which CPT code to use  and what it includes  can help practices avoid denials and maintain compliance. Let’s explore how liver ultrasound procedures are coded and billed correctly.

Understanding CPT Codes for Liver Ultrasound

The Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) system, maintained by the American Medical Association (AMA), standardizes medical, surgical, and diagnostic service reporting. Each code represents a specific service that physicians or healthcare facilities perform.

When performing a liver ultrasound, coders typically select one of the following CPT codes based on the exam’s scope and purpose:

For the most accurate and updated definitions, you can refer to the AAPC official CPT code database (external link).

What Each CPT Code Includes

1. Complete Abdominal Ultrasound (76700)

This code includes the evaluation of multiple abdominal organs, including the liver. The report must include documented images of all key structures:

• Liver, spleen, pancreas, kidneys
• Abdominal aorta and inferior vena cava
• Gallbladder and bile ducts

The 76700 code covers both the technical (equipment, sonographer) and professional (radiologist interpretation) components unless billed separately.

2. Limited Abdominal Ultrasound (76705)

Used when the ultrasound focuses only on one organ or region, such as the liver. This is common for:

• Monitoring liver lesions
• Evaluating fatty liver
• Checking abnormal liver function tests

This code requires a written report and image documentation of the targeted organ(s).

3. Doppler Evaluation (93975)

If blood flow or vascular assessment of the liver is performed (e.g., portal or hepatic veins), 93975 is billed.
It’s often used as an add-on code to standard imaging, depending on payer rules.

Why Accurate CPT Coding Matters

Choosing the correct CPT code ensures:

• Accurate reimbursement from insurance providers
• Compliance with payer and Medicare documentation guidelines
• Efficient revenue cycle management

Errors in code selection can lead to claim denials, payment delays, and potential compliance issues. To strengthen your process, read our detailed guide on Radiology Billing Codes to understand how imaging codes impact medical billing.

Common Documentation Tips

To ensure compliance:

• Always capture and save image documentation
• Include relevant patient symptoms or diagnosis
• Specify whether the exam was complete or limited
• Use modifiers like –26 (professional component) or –TC (technical component) when needed

Proper documentation supports the CPT code selected and helps in faster reimbursement.

For more insights on how coding integrates into your revenue cycle, explore our blog on Revenue Cycle Management in Medical Billing.

How EZ Settle Solutions Helps

At EZ Settle Solutions, we simplify complex medical billing and coding tasks so you can focus on patient care. Our team ensures:

• Correct CPT code selection for imaging and radiology
• Compliance with payer and CMS updates
• Denial prevention and timely reimbursements

To learn how we can assist your practice with precision coding, visit our page on Medical Billing and Coding Services.

Final Thoughts

The CPT code for a liver ultrasound depends on the scope of the exam  76700 for a complete study, 76705 for a limited one, and 93975 for Doppler assessment. Choosing accurately and documenting thoroughly ensures compliant billing and optimized revenue.