How To Use CPT Code 78111

CPT 78111 describes the procedure for determining plasma volume using a radiopharmaceutical volume-dilution technique with multiple samplings. 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 78111?

CPT 78111 can be used to determine the plasma volume in a patient’s blood using a radiopharmaceutical volume-dilution technique with multiple samplings. This code is used when the provider introduces a known quantity of radioactive material into the blood and measures the concentration after adequate mixing to calculate the plasma volume.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 78111 is: ‘Plasma volume, radiopharmaceutical volume-dilution technique (separate procedure); multiple samplings.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider introduces a known quantity of radioactive material into the patient’s blood.
2. After adequate mixing, the provider takes multiple blood samples at different time intervals, such as 15, 20, and 25 minutes.
3. The concentration of the radioactive tracer in each sample is measured.
4. The provider calculates the volume in which the tracer is distributed using a mathematical formula.
5. The plasma volume is determined by centrifuging a part of each blood sample and measuring the radioactivity of an exact volume of plasma in each sample.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 78111 is used when the provider takes multiple blood samples to determine the plasma volume using a radiopharmaceutical volume-dilution technique. This procedure is performed separately and not as part of a larger procedure. The provider uses a radioactive tracer, such as iodinated albumin, and measures the concentration of the tracer in each blood sample to calculate the plasma volume.

5. When to use CPT code 78111

CPT code 78111 should be used when the provider needs to determine the plasma volume using a radiopharmaceutical volume-dilution technique with multiple samplings. This code should not be used when only a single blood sample is taken to determine the plasma volume, in which case CPT code 78110 should be used instead.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 78111, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for determining the plasma volume
• Details of the radiopharmaceutical volume-dilution technique used
• Date and time of each blood sample taken
• Concentration of the radioactive tracer in each sample
• Calculation of the plasma volume using the measured concentrations
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 78111, ensure that the procedure is performed separately and not as part of a larger procedure. If reporting only the professional component, append modifier 26 to the radiology code. If reporting only the technical component, append modifier TC to the radiology code. However, payer policy may exempt hospitals from appending modifier TC. Do not append a professional or technical modifier when reporting a global service in which one provider renders both components. The cost of the radiopharmaceutical substance may be reported separately using the appropriate code.

8. Historical information

CPT 78111 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider takes multiple blood samples at different time intervals to determine the plasma volume in a patient using a radiopharmaceutical volume-dilution technique.
2. A patient undergoes a procedure in which a known quantity of radioactive material is introduced into their blood, and the concentration of the tracer is measured in multiple blood samples to calculate the plasma volume.
3. A provider uses a radiopharmaceutical volume-dilution technique with multiple samplings to determine the plasma volume in a patient’s blood, helping to assess their overall health.
4. A patient receives a procedure in which their plasma volume is determined by introducing a radioactive tracer and measuring its concentration in multiple blood samples taken at different time intervals.
5. A provider performs a radiopharmaceutical volume-dilution technique with multiple samplings to determine the plasma volume in a patient’s blood, aiding in the diagnosis and treatment of certain medical conditions.
6. A patient undergoes a procedure in which their plasma volume is calculated by measuring the concentration of a radioactive tracer in multiple blood samples taken at specific time intervals.
7. A provider uses a radiopharmaceutical volume-dilution technique with multiple samplings to determine the plasma volume in a patient’s blood, providing valuable information for their healthcare management.
8. A patient receives a procedure in which their plasma volume is determined by measuring the concentration of a radioactive tracer in multiple blood samples taken at different time intervals, helping to monitor their overall blood health.
9. A provider performs a radiopharmaceutical volume-dilution technique with multiple samplings to determine the plasma volume in a patient’s blood, assisting in the evaluation of their circulatory system.
10. A patient undergoes a procedure in which their plasma volume is calculated by measuring the concentration of a radioactive tracer in multiple blood samples taken at specific time intervals, aiding in the assessment of their blood volume.