CPT Code 76881: Ultrasound of Complete Joint, Real-Time With Image Documentation

A complete ultrasound exam of an extremity joint requires real-time imaging of the entire joint space, including periarticular soft tissue structures such as muscles, tendons, and other soft tissues surrounding the joint, as well as any identifiable abnormalities.

No, CPT codes 76881 (complete extremity joint ultrasound) and 76882 (limited or focal extremity ultrasound) should not be billed together for the same anatomical region or session. Code 76882 is used for limited exams focusing on specific structures such as a tendon, muscle, or soft tissue mass, whereas 76881 covers a comprehensive joint evaluation.

If you perform a complete ultrasound exam of the knee joint, including the joint space and surrounding soft tissues, you would report CPT code 76881. If the exam is limited to a specific structure within the knee, such as a single tendon or a focal soft tissue mass, then CPT code 76882 would be appropriate.