Coding for pre- and post-void bladder ultrasound

Q.

Do you know which CPT^® code should be used for pre and post void residual bladder ultrasound? Correct choices seem to be either CPT code 76857 or 76775.

A.

If ultrasound images were taken to calculate the bladder volume, then this would be defined by CPT code 76857 – non-OB, limited pelvis. If bladder volume is obtained without imaging the bladder, then non-imaging CPT code 51798 would be reported.

The codes and full descriptions are:

76857 Ultrasound, pelvic (nonobstetric), real time with image documentation; limited or follow-up (e.g., for follicles).

51798   Measurement of post-voiding residual urine and/or bladder capacity by ultrasound, non-imaging