How To Use CPT Code 38213

CPT 38213 describes the preparation of hematopoietic progenitor cells for transplantation by reducing the number of platelets in the solution. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 38213?

CPT 38213 can be used to describe the preparation of hematopoietic progenitor cells for transplantation by reducing the number of platelets in the solution. This code is used when the healthcare provider performs techniques such as centrifugation, apheresis, or cell washers to separate cells and plasma from the rest of the hematopoietic progenitor cells solution, ensuring as few platelets as possible remain.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 38213 is: ‘Transplant preparation of hematopoietic progenitor cells; platelet depletion.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider harvests, preserves, and thaws the hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs).
2. The provider prepares the solution for transplant using techniques such as centrifugation, apheresis, or cell washers to separate cells and plasma from the rest of the HPCs solution.
3. The goal is to reduce the number of platelets in the solution to minimize the risk of clumping during the transplantation process.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 38213 is used when the healthcare provider prepares the hematopoietic progenitor cells solution for transplantation and specifically focuses on reducing the number of platelets in the solution. This procedure is performed to prevent clumping of the solution, as platelets are comparatively large in size and can cause problems during transplantation. The provider may use techniques such as centrifugation, apheresis, or cell washers to achieve platelet depletion.

5. When to use CPT code 38213

CPT code 38213 should be used when the healthcare provider performs the platelet depletion procedure as part of the preparation of hematopoietic progenitor cells for transplantation. This code should not be used for other procedures or services unrelated to platelet depletion in the context of hematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 38213, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Details of the hematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation procedure
• Specific techniques used for platelet depletion, such as centrifugation, apheresis, or cell washers
• Any additional relevant information or notes related to the platelet depletion process
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 38213, ensure that the procedure performed is specifically platelet depletion as part of the preparation of hematopoietic progenitor cells for transplantation. This code should not be reported with other unrelated codes. It is important to follow any additional guidelines or requirements set by the payer or insurance company. Report this service only once per day.

8. Historical information

CPT 38213 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2003. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider performing centrifugation to separate platelets from hematopoietic progenitor cells solution for transplantation.
2. A provider using apheresis to remove platelets from the hematopoietic progenitor cells solution before transplantation.
3. A healthcare professional utilizing cell washers to deplete platelets from the hematopoietic progenitor cells solution for transplantation.
4. A provider performing platelet depletion as part of the preparation process for hematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation.
5. A healthcare provider using specialized techniques to reduce the number of platelets in the hematopoietic progenitor cells solution before transplantation.
6. A provider ensuring platelet depletion in the hematopoietic progenitor cells solution to minimize clumping during transplantation.
7. A healthcare professional performing platelet depletion as a crucial step in the preparation of hematopoietic progenitor cells for transplantation.
8. A provider using centrifugation to separate platelets from the rest of the hematopoietic progenitor cells solution for transplantation.
9. A healthcare provider performing platelet depletion to optimize the quality of the hematopoietic progenitor cells solution for transplantation.
10. A provider utilizing apheresis to remove platelets and prevent clumping in the hematopoietic progenitor cells solution before transplantation.