CPT Code 38207 | Description & Clinical Information
CPT 38207 describes the process by which the provider oversees the preservation and storage of harvested hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) in accordance with established protocols to ensure their viability for future transplantation.
Official Description
The CPT book defines CPT code 38207 as: “Transplant preparation of hematopoietic progenitor cells; cryopreservation and storage”.
Billing Guidelines
For the purpose of diagnostic cryopreservation and storage, it is recommended to utilize CPT code 88240.
Clinical Information
The procedure described by CPT code 38207 is one that involves the proper preservation of hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) obtained from either blood or umbilical cells. These cells are crucial in maintaining the viability of blood cells in a patient, making their preservation of utmost importance.
To ensure that the cells are preserved in a way that does not spoil their viability, providers make use of a cryoprotective solution. This is a special solution that prevents ice crystallization at very low temperatures. By ensuring that the cells are kept in a cryoprotective solution, the provider can be assured that the cells remain in good condition within the vials or bags containing the solution.
The next step in the preservation process is the cooling of the cells. This step is done slowly to avoid any damages to the cells. The cells are cooled and kept in special vials or bags that can tolerate the cryogenic substance. These vials or bags are then stored in either a laboratory freezer or in nitrogen liquid or vapor.
The temperature range that the cells are kept in also plays a crucial role in the preservation process. The temperature range usually maintained is between minus 80 degrees Celsius to minus 120 degrees Celsius. However, the temperature maintained can vary depending on the estimated duration of storage.
In cases where the preservation of these cells is required for a longer period, then the cells must be stored at even lower temperatures. This ensures that the cells remain in good condition and can still be used when needed.
The proper preservation of HPCs is crucial to their viability and continued use. By following the guidelines for preservation outlined by CPT code 38207, providers can be assured that they are doing all they can to keep these cells in the best possible condition. By taking these steps, providers can ensure that the HPCs remain viable and can be used when needed.
Return to all the CPT codes for bone marrow or stem cell services/procedures.
