How To Use CPT Code 0106U

CPT 0106U describes a proprietary laboratory analysis (PLA) test called the Cairn 13C-Spirulina Gastric Emptying Breath Test (GEBT). This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples of CPT code 0106U.

1. What is CPT Code 0106U?

CPT 0106U is a unique code that represents the Cairn 13C-Spirulina Gastric Emptying Breath Test (GEBT). This test is a noninvasive and nonradioactive breath test that measures the rate of gastric emptying of solids in adult patients. It is used to diagnose gastroparesis, a condition where the stomach muscles do not function properly, leading to delayed or incomplete emptying of the stomach.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 0106U is: ‘Gastric emptying, serial collection of 7 timed breath specimens, non-radioisotope carbon-13 (13C) spirulina substrate, analysis of each specimen by gas isotope ratio mass spectrometry, reported as rate of 13CO2 excretion.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is instructed to have nothing by mouth for at least 8 hours before the test.
2. A healthcare professional collects several premeal breath samples from the patient to establish a baseline.
3. The patient consumes a test meal consisting of cooked egg labeled with 13C-Spirulina platensis, along with saltine crackers and water.
4. Over a four-hour period, the healthcare professional collects six breath samples at specific intervals.
5. All pre- and postmeal breath samples are analyzed using gas isotope ratio mass spectrometry to determine the ratio of 13C O2 to 12C O2.
6. The change in this ratio is measured and compared to the patient’s premeal value to determine the gastric emptying rate.

4. Qualifying circumstances

The Cairn 13C-Spirulina Gastric Emptying Breath Test is ordered for adult patients who exhibit symptoms of gastroparesis, such as heartburn, nausea and vomiting, unstable blood glucose levels, and a feeling of fullness after meals. The most common cause of gastroparesis is diabetes, but there can be other underlying causes as well. The test is performed under the supervision of a healthcare professional and requires the use of the Cairn 13C-Spirulina test meal.

5. When to use CPT code 0106U

CPT code 0106U should be used when performing the Cairn 13C-Spirulina Gastric Emptying Breath Test. It is important to note that this code should not be reported with any other CPT code and should only be used for the specific test described.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 0106U, the healthcare professional must document the following information:

• Patient’s symptoms and indication for the test
• Date of the test and start and end times
• Details of the test meal administered
• Collection of pre- and postmeal breath samples
• Results of the gas isotope ratio mass spectrometry analysis
• Comparison of the patient’s gastric emptying rate to the premeal value
• Signature of the healthcare professional supervising the test

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 0106U, ensure that the test is performed using the Cairn 13C-Spirulina test meal and the analysis is done by gas isotope ratio mass spectrometry. This code should not be reported with any other CPT code. It is important to check with the appropriate payer to determine if separate payment is allowed for specimen collection. CLIA certification is not required for this code.

8. Historical information

CPT code 0106U was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on October 1, 2019. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient with diabetes experiencing symptoms of gastroparesis undergoes the Cairn 13C-Spirulina Gastric Emptying Breath Test to assess their gastric emptying rate.
2. An individual with persistent heartburn and a feeling of fullness after meals undergoes the Cairn 13C-Spirulina Gastric Emptying Breath Test to determine if gastroparesis is the underlying cause.
3. A patient with unstable blood glucose levels and nausea after eating is referred for the Cairn 13C-Spirulina Gastric Emptying Breath Test to evaluate their gastric emptying rate.
4. A healthcare professional orders the Cairn 13C-Spirulina Gastric Emptying Breath Test for a patient with symptoms of gastroparesis to assess their stomach’s ability to empty properly.
5. An individual with diabetes and recurrent vomiting undergoes the Cairn 13C-Spirulina Gastric Emptying Breath Test to determine if gastroparesis is contributing to their symptoms.
6. A patient with a history of diabetes and postprandial bloating undergoes the Cairn 13C-Spirulina Gastric Emptying Breath Test to evaluate their gastric emptying rate.
7. An individual with diabetes and frequent episodes of nausea and vomiting is referred for the Cairn 13C-Spirulina Gastric Emptying Breath Test to assess their stomach’s ability to empty properly.
8. A healthcare professional orders the Cairn 13C-Spirulina Gastric Emptying Breath Test for a patient with symptoms of gastroparesis, including early satiety and abdominal discomfort after meals.
9. An individual with diabetes and unexplained weight loss undergoes the Cairn 13C-Spirulina Gastric Emptying Breath Test to determine if gastroparesis is contributing to their symptoms.
10. A patient with a history of diabetes and persistent nausea after eating is referred for the Cairn 13C-Spirulina Gastric Emptying Breath Test to evaluate their gastric emptying rate.