CPT code 76604 denotes an ultrasound evaluation of the pleural spaces to identify fluid collections or masses in the chest, upper back, chest wall, or mediastinum. This imaging code is used across acute and ambulatory care settings to guide diagnosis and management of pleural effusion, suspected pleural mass, and related chest wall pathology. Nationally, pleural ultrasound is an important point-of-care and radiology service because it is rapid, radiation-free, and can influence urgent procedural decisions such as thoracentesis or further cross-sectional imaging.

Key payers covered in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a clear description of the clinical service represented by the code, typical sites of service, and the common modifiers associated with billing for this type of diagnostic ultrasound. The publication also outlines benchmarking and reimbursement context, common payer policies affecting prior authorization and coverage, and clinical considerations relevant to billing and coding for pleural ultrasound. Data not available in the input is noted where applicable.