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Official Description

Noninvasive physiologic studies of extremity veins, complete bilateral study (eg, Doppler waveform analysis with responses to compression and other maneuvers, phleborheography, impedance plethysmography)

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 93965 refers to noninvasive physiologic studies of the extremity veins, specifically a complete bilateral study. This procedure encompasses various functional measurement techniques designed to assess the health and functionality of the veins in the extremities. The studies include Doppler waveform analysis, which evaluates blood flow velocity and can be performed under different conditions, such as compression or other maneuvers that affect blood circulation. This analysis is crucial for identifying and localizing vascular diseases, as it provides insights into how blood flows through the veins. Additionally, the procedure may involve phleborheography and impedance plethysmography, both of which measure changes in venous volume in response to external factors like respiration or compression. The use of a blood pressure cuff during these tests allows for the assessment of blood flow and volume changes, which are essential for diagnosing conditions such as blood clots. Importantly, these studies are noninvasive and do not involve imaging techniques. The physician conducting the study is responsible for performing the measurements, recording the data, and providing a comprehensive written interpretation of the findings, which is vital for further clinical decision-making.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The noninvasive physiologic studies of extremity veins, as described by CPT® Code 93965, are indicated for various clinical scenarios where assessment of venous function is necessary. These indications may include:

  • Suspected Venous Insufficiency - Patients presenting with symptoms such as leg swelling, pain, or heaviness may require these studies to evaluate venous function.
  • Diagnosis of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) - The procedure is often utilized to help confirm or rule out the presence of blood clots in the deep veins of the extremities.
  • Assessment of Varicose Veins - Individuals with varicose veins may undergo these studies to understand the underlying venous pathology.
  • Preoperative Evaluation - Prior to surgical interventions, these studies can provide essential information regarding venous health and function.
  • Monitoring of Venous Disease Progression - Patients with known venous disorders may require periodic assessments to monitor changes in their condition.

2. Procedure

The procedure for CPT® Code 93965 involves several key steps to ensure comprehensive evaluation of the extremity veins. The following procedural steps are typically performed:

  • Step 1: Patient Preparation - The patient is positioned comfortably, and the extremities to be studied are exposed. A thorough history and physical examination are conducted to identify any specific areas of concern.
  • Step 2: Doppler Waveform Analysis - A Doppler ultrasound device is used to assess blood flow in the veins. The physician applies a transducer to the skin over the veins, measuring the velocity of blood flow. This may include baseline measurements as well as assessments during compression maneuvers to observe changes in blood flow dynamics.
  • Step 3: Phleborheography - This technique involves placing sensors on the skin to measure changes in venous volume in response to respiratory movements or external compression. The data collected helps in understanding the venous return and any abnormalities present.
  • Step 4: Impedance Plethysmography - Similar to phleborheography, this method measures changes in electrical impedance in the veins as they fill and empty with blood. The physician inflates and deflates a blood pressure cuff to create controlled changes in venous pressure, allowing for detailed analysis of venous function.
  • Step 5: Ankle/Brachial Index Measurement - In some cases, the ankle/brachial index may be measured using a Doppler stethoscope to assess blood flow at the ankle and compare it to the flow at the arm, providing additional information about vascular health.
  • Step 6: Documentation and Interpretation - After completing the measurements, the physician documents the findings and provides a written interpretation, summarizing the results and any clinical implications for further management.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care for patients undergoing CPT® Code 93965 is generally minimal due to the noninvasive nature of the studies. Patients may resume normal activities immediately following the procedure. However, they should be advised to monitor for any unusual symptoms, such as increased pain, swelling, or changes in skin color in the extremities. The physician will typically schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss the results of the study and any necessary further evaluations or treatments based on the findings. It is essential for the physician to communicate the results clearly to the patient and outline any subsequent steps in their care plan.

Short Descr EXTREMITY STUDY
Medium Descr N-INVAS PHYSIOLOGIC STD XTR VEINS COMPL BI STD
Long Descr Noninvasive physiologic studies of extremity veins, complete bilateral study (eg, Doppler waveform analysis with responses to compression and other maneuvers, phleborheography, impedance plethysmography)
Status Code Active Code
Global Days XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 1 - Diagnostic Tests for Radiology Services
Multiple Procedures (51) 6 -
Bilateral Surgery (50) 2 - 150% payment adjustment does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions 9 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Procedure or Service, Not Discounted when Multiple
Type of Service (TOS) 5 - Diagnostic Laboratory
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) T2D - Other tests - other
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 197 - Other diagnostic ultrasound
Date
Action
Notes
2016-12-31 Deleted Code deleted.
2007-01-01 Changed Code description changed.
1992-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 1992.
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