In simple words: This procedure uses ultrasound to create images of the arteries and veins in both arms to check blood flow before a hemodialysis access is created.A special gel is applied to the skin, and a device called a transducer is moved over the area. The transducer sends out sound waves that bounce back to create images on a monitor. This helps doctors evaluate the blood vessels and plan the best location for the hemodialysis access.

Duplex scan of arterial inflow and venous outflow for preoperative vessel assessment prior to creation of hemodialysis access; complete bilateral study. (Do not report 93985 in conjunction with 93925, 93930, 93970 for the same extremity[ies]) (Do not report 93985 in conjunction with 93990 for the same extremity)

Example 1: A patient with end-stage renal disease requires a hemodialysis access creation. A bilateral upper extremity duplex scan is performed to assess the suitability of the vessels for fistula creation., A patient with chronic kidney disease is being evaluated for future hemodialysis access. A 93985 is performed to map the upper extremity veins and arteries., A patient has a history of failed hemodialysis access in one arm. A 93985 is performed on the other arm to evaluate the vessels before attempting to create a new access.

Documentation should include details of the duplex scan, including the areas examined (bilateral upper extremities), the findings related to arterial inflow and venous outflow, and an interpretation of the results in relation to the planned hemodialysis access creation. Any abnormalities or limitations should also be documented. Medical necessity for the procedure should be clearly established.