How To Use CPT Code 38790

CPT 38790 describes the injection procedure for lymphangiography, which involves injecting a contrast dye into the lymphatic ducts and examining the vessels of the lymphatic system through X-ray imaging. 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 38790?

CPT 38790 is used to describe the injection procedure for lymphangiography. During this procedure, a qualified healthcare provider injects a contrast dye into the lymphatic ducts and then performs an X-ray examination of the lymphatic system’s vessels. This allows the provider to assess the condition of the lymphatic system and identify any abnormalities or issues.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 38790 is: ‘Injection procedure; lymphangiography.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider identifies the target lymphatic ducts and makes a small incision over the duct to access it.
2. A contrast dye, also known as a contrast material or contrast agent, is injected into the lymphatic duct.
3. The provider performs X-ray imaging to examine the lymphatic vessels and assess their condition.
4. During the examination, the provider looks for any signs of leakage, blockage, or other abnormalities in the lymphatic system.
5. If any bleeding occurs during the procedure, the provider applies pressure to stop it.
6. Finally, the provider closes the small incision with a suture.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 38790 is used when a healthcare provider performs a lymphangiography procedure by injecting a contrast dye into the lymphatic ducts. This procedure is typically done to assess the condition of the lymphatic system and diagnose any issues or abnormalities. It is important to note that if the procedure is performed bilaterally, modifier 50 should be appended to the code.

5. When to use CPT code 38790

CPT code 38790 should be used when a healthcare provider performs the injection procedure for lymphangiography. This code is appropriate when the provider injects a contrast dye into the lymphatic ducts and performs an X-ray examination of the lymphatic vessels. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 38790, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the lymphangiography procedure
• Details of the injection procedure, including the specific lymphatic ducts targeted
• Type and amount of contrast dye used
• Date and time of the procedure
• Findings from the X-ray examination
• Any complications or additional interventions performed
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 38790, ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. It is important to append modifier 50 if the procedure is performed bilaterally. Additionally, consider any applicable radiological supervision and interpretation codes (75801-75807) if the provider also performs these services. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer and accurately report the services rendered.

8. Historical information

CPT code 38790 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A radiologist performing a lymphangiography procedure by injecting a contrast dye into the lymphatic ducts and examining the vessels of the lymphatic system through X-ray imaging.
2. An interventional radiologist performing a bilateral lymphangiography procedure by injecting a contrast dye into the lymphatic ducts on both sides of the body and conducting X-ray imaging.
3. A vascular surgeon performing a lymphangiography procedure with retrograde injection, where the contrast dye is injected in a reverse direction into the lymphatic ducts.
4. An oncologist performing a lymphangiography procedure with antegrade injection, where the contrast dye is injected in the normal direction of lymph flow.
5. An interventional radiologist performing a selective lymphangiography procedure, targeting specific lymphatic ducts for examination.