How To Use CPT Code 78201

CPT 78201 describes the procedure for liver imaging using a specialized radiologic technique. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 78201?

CPT 78201 is used to describe a specialized radiologic procedure for liver imaging. It involves the use of a special camera to take planar images of the liver by detecting gamma radiation from a radioisotope injected into a peripheral vein and extracted by the liver. This code specifically refers to static imaging only, meaning it does not include imaging of vascular flow.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 78201 is: ‘Liver imaging; static only.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is positioned on the table in a supine position.
2. After cleaning the arm with an antiseptic solution, a small amount of radioactive tracer is injected into a peripheral vein.
3. After approximately 30 minutes, the scanner is placed over the right upper quadrant of the abdomen to detect the gamma rays emitted by the radionuclide in the liver and spleen tissue.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 78201 is used when a specialized liver imaging procedure is performed. It is typically used to identify certain conditions or assess the function of the liver and spleen. This procedure is performed on patients who require imaging of the liver and spleen and does not involve imaging of vascular flow.

5. When to use CPT code 78201

CPT code 78201 should be used when a specialized liver imaging procedure is performed, specifically for static imaging of the liver. It should not be used when imaging of vascular flow is required. It is important to accurately document the specific procedure performed to ensure proper coding and billing.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 78201, the following documentation is required:

• Indication for the liver imaging procedure
• Details of the procedure performed, including the use of a specialized camera and the specific imaging technique used
• Date and time of the procedure
• Results and findings of the imaging procedure
• Signature of the healthcare professional performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 78201, ensure that the procedure performed is specifically for static liver imaging. It is important to accurately document the procedure and provide the necessary supporting documentation. CPT code 78201 should not be reported with CPT code 78202, which includes imaging of vascular flow. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer and ensure accurate coding and billing.

8. Historical information

CPT code 78201 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 patient undergoes a liver imaging procedure to assess the function of their liver and spleen.
2. A specialized camera is used to perform static imaging of the liver for a patient with suspected liver disease.
3. A physician orders a liver imaging procedure to evaluate the effectiveness of a patient’s liver treatment.
4. A radiologist performs a liver imaging procedure to identify any abnormalities in the liver and spleen.
5. A patient with a history of liver disease undergoes a liver imaging procedure to monitor their condition.
6. A specialized liver imaging procedure is performed to assess the function of a patient’s liver and spleen after a liver transplant.
7. A physician orders a liver imaging procedure to investigate the cause of a patient’s elevated liver enzymes.
8. A radiology technician performs a liver imaging procedure to assist in the diagnosis of a patient’s liver disorder.
9. A patient undergoes a liver imaging procedure to assess the size and shape of their liver and spleen.
10. A specialized liver imaging procedure is performed to evaluate the response of a patient’s liver to a specific treatment.