MELANIE WITT, RN, CPC, MA Ms. Witt, former program manager in the Department of Coding and Nomenclature at the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, is an independent coding and documentation consultant. Reimbursement Adviser reflects the most commonly accepted interpretations of CPT-4 and ICD-9-CM coding. When in doubt on a coding or billing matter, check with your individual payer.
Q Can the code for obstetric transvaginal ultrasound be used any time during the patient’s pregnancy?
A Yes. The code 76817 (ultrasound, pregnant uterus, real time with image documentation, transvaginal) does not specify a gestational period, unlike the new and revised codes 76801–76810 (for fetal and maternal evaluation either prior to or later than 14 weeks, 0 days of gestation). Thus, 76817 can be used at any time.
