Encounter for antenatal screening for nuchal translucency

This code signifies a patient encounter for an ultrasound examination specifically performed to measure the nuchal translucency (NT) thickness in a fetus. This measurement is a key component of first-trimester screening for chromosomal abnormalities, particularly Down syndrome, and other congenital anomalies.

Use this code when a pregnant patient presents for a scheduled nuchal translucency ultrasound as part of their prenatal care. This typically occurs between 11 weeks 0 days and 13 weeks 6 days of gestation. It is often combined with maternal serum biochemical markers for a comprehensive first-trimester screening.

• This code is for the encounter for the screening, not the results of the screening.
• Do not use this code if the ultrasound is performed for reasons other than nuchal translucency screening (e.g., dating, viability).
• Always sequence this code as a secondary diagnosis if other conditions or reasons for the encounter are present.