How To Use CPT Code 78709

CPT 78709 describes the diagnostic nuclear medicine procedure used to evaluate the structure, function, and blood flow of the kidneys. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 78709?

CPT 78709 is a code used to describe a diagnostic nuclear medicine procedure that evaluates the anatomical structure, function, and blood flow of the kidneys. This procedure involves the use of a radionuclide, which is injected into the patient’s vein and travels through the bloodstream to the kidneys. A gamma camera is then used to capture images of the radionuclide in the kidneys, providing valuable information about their condition.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 78709 is: ‘Kidney imaging morphology; with vascular flow and function, multiple studies, with and without pharmacological intervention (eg, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor and/or diuretic).’ This code specifically refers to the evaluation of the kidneys’ structure, blood flow, and function using nuclear medicine techniques. It may involve multiple studies and the use of pharmacological interventions, such as ACE inhibitors or diuretics.

3. Procedure

1. First, a radionuclide is injected into the patient’s vein.
2. The radionuclide travels through the bloodstream and reaches the kidneys.
3. A gamma camera is used to capture images of the radionuclide in the kidneys.
4. The images obtained provide information about the structure, blood flow, and function of the kidneys.
5. If necessary, pharmacological interventions, such as ACE inhibitors or diuretics, may be administered to enhance the evaluation.
6. Multiple studies may be performed to gather comprehensive information about the kidneys.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 78709 is used for patients who require a diagnostic evaluation of their kidneys’ structure, blood flow, and function. This procedure is typically performed when there is a suspected abnormality or disease affecting the kidneys. It may also be used to monitor the progress of a known kidney condition or to assess the effectiveness of pharmacological interventions. The use of pharmacological interventions, such as ACE inhibitors or diuretics, may be necessary in certain cases to enhance the evaluation.

5. When to use CPT code 78709

CPT code 78709 should be used when performing a diagnostic nuclear medicine procedure to evaluate the structure, blood flow, and function of the kidneys. It is appropriate when there is a clinical indication for such an evaluation, such as suspected kidney disease or abnormalities. This code should be used when multiple studies are performed, and when pharmacological interventions, such as ACE inhibitors or diuretics, are utilized to enhance the evaluation.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 78709, the following documentation is required:

• Clinical indication for the procedure, including suspected kidney disease or abnormalities
• Details of the radionuclide used and any pharmacological interventions administered
• Date and time of the procedure
• Images obtained during the procedure, including any abnormalities or findings
• Interpretation of the images by a qualified healthcare professional
• Signature of the healthcare professional performing or supervising the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 78709, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. The use of pharmacological interventions, such as ACE inhibitors or diuretics, should be documented and supported by the clinical indication. It is also important to follow any additional guidelines or requirements set forth by the payer or insurance company. CPT code 78709 should not be reported in conjunction with other codes unless specifically indicated.

8. Historical information

CPT code 78709 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1998. Since its addition, there have been no updates or changes to the code.

9. Examples

1. A patient with suspected kidney disease undergoes a diagnostic nuclear medicine procedure to evaluate the structure, blood flow, and function of their kidneys using CPT code 78709.
2. A patient with known kidney abnormalities receives a comprehensive evaluation of their kidneys’ structure, blood flow, and function using CPT code 78709.
3. A healthcare professional administers an ACE inhibitor to a patient before performing a kidney scan to enhance the evaluation using CPT code 78709.
4. A patient with hypertension undergoes a diagnostic nuclear medicine procedure to assess the blood flow and function of their kidneys using CPT code 78709.
5. A physician orders a kidney scan with pharmacological intervention to monitor the progress of a patient’s kidney condition using CPT code 78709.