How To Use CPT Code 78071

CPT 78071 describes the procedure for parathyroid planar imaging, including subtraction, when performed, with tomographic (SPECT). This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 78071?

CPT 78071 can be used to describe the procedure for parathyroid planar imaging, including subtraction, when performed, with tomographic (SPECT). This code is used when a provider performs a SPECT study to image the parathyroid glands, using two different radiopharmaceuticals or radioactive tracers. The provider takes sets of planar images and compares them to each other to help identify abnormal tissue in the parathyroid glands.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 78071 is: ‘Parathyroid planar imaging (including subtraction, when performed); with tomographic (SPECT)’. This code is used when a provider performs a SPECT study to image the parathyroid glands, using two different radiopharmaceuticals or radioactive tracers. The provider takes sets of planar images and compares them to each other to help identify abnormal tissue in the parathyroid glands.

3. Procedure

1. The provider verifies the positioning of the patient and may administer a sedative to ensure the patient remains still throughout the study.
2. The provider administers the first radioactive tracers and takes early and delayed planar images of the neck and mediastinum with a Gamma camera.
3. The provider administers a subsequent tracer and repeats the planar images, taking additional images of the neck as needed.
4. The provider digitally stores the acquired studies and manipulates and compares the images with other clinical data.
5. If necessary, the provider performs a subtraction study, comparing the two sets of images to distinguish abnormal parathyroid tissue from normal tissue.
6. The provider takes SPECT images using a special camera to create 3-dimensional pictures of the parathyroid gland.
7. The provider reviews the findings with the ordering physician and prepares a nuclear medicine report.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 78071 is performed when a provider needs to image the parathyroid glands to identify abnormal tissue. This procedure is typically done for patients with suspected parathyroid adenomas, parathyroid carcinomas, or hyperplastic parathyroid glands. The provider uses radiopharmaceuticals or radioactive tracers to enhance the imaging process and may perform a subtraction study to aid in the identification of abnormal tissue.

5. When to use CPT code 78071

CPT code 78071 should be used when a provider performs parathyroid planar imaging, including subtraction, when performed, with tomographic (SPECT). This code is appropriate when the provider needs to image the parathyroid glands to identify abnormal tissue. It should not be used for other types of imaging studies or procedures.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 78071, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for performing the parathyroid planar imaging
• Details of the radiopharmaceuticals or radioactive tracers used
• Date and time of the procedure
• Images acquired during the procedure
• Comparison of the images and any findings
• Review of the findings with the ordering physician
• Preparation and signing of the nuclear medicine report

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 78071, ensure that the procedure meets the requirements for parathyroid planar imaging, including subtraction, when performed, with tomographic (SPECT). Use the appropriate CPT code based on the specific procedure performed. It is important to follow payer guidelines and append the appropriate modifiers, such as modifier 26 for the professional component or modifier TC for the technical component, if applicable. Be aware of any specific billing requirements or restrictions set by the payer.

8. Historical information

CPT 78071 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2013. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient with suspected parathyroid adenoma undergoes parathyroid planar imaging, including subtraction, when performed, with tomographic (SPECT) to identify abnormal tissue.
2. A patient with hyperplastic parathyroid glands undergoes parathyroid planar imaging, including subtraction, when performed, with tomographic (SPECT) to evaluate the extent of the enlargement.
3. A patient with suspected parathyroid carcinoma undergoes parathyroid planar imaging, including subtraction, when performed, with tomographic (SPECT) to assess the presence of malignant tissue.
4. A patient with recurrent hyperparathyroidism undergoes parathyroid planar imaging, including subtraction, when performed, with tomographic (SPECT) to determine the cause of the recurrence.
5. A patient with persistent hypercalcemia undergoes parathyroid planar imaging, including subtraction, when performed, with tomographic (SPECT) to investigate the underlying cause.
6. A patient with primary hyperparathyroidism undergoes parathyroid planar imaging, including subtraction, when performed, with tomographic (SPECT) to locate the abnormal parathyroid gland.
7. A patient with secondary hyperparathyroidism undergoes parathyroid planar imaging, including subtraction, when performed, with tomographic (SPECT) to assess the function of the parathyroid glands.