How To Use CPT Code 78730

CPT 78730 describes the procedure for a urinary bladder residual study, which is used to evaluate any functional defect in the urinary bladder. 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 78730?

CPT 78730 is a code used to describe a urinary bladder residual study. This procedure involves the use of a radioisotope to assess any functional abnormalities in the urinary bladder. The provider injects a radioisotope into the patient’s blood, which adheres to the tissues in the bladder and emits radiation to produce an image. The images are then viewed on a camera to evaluate the bladder’s function.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 78730 is: ‘Urinary bladder residual study (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure).’ This code is used in conjunction with code 78740, which is the primary procedure for a ureteral reflux study. It is important to note that CPT 78730 should not be reported without the appropriate primary code.

3. Procedure

1. After performing a ureteral reflux study, the provider administers a contrast dye into the bladder through a catheter to check for reflux.
2. The provider then injects a radioisotope into the patient’s blood, which adheres to the tissues in the bladder.
3. The radioisotope emits radiation, which is captured by a camera to produce images of the bladder.
4. The provider reviews these images to assess any functional abnormalities in the urinary bladder.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 78730 is used when there is a need to evaluate the functional defects in the urinary bladder. This procedure is typically performed after a ureteral reflux study, which checks for abnormal backflow of urine into the ureters. The provider must administer a contrast dye and a radioisotope to assess the bladder’s function. It is important to note that CPT 78730 should only be reported in conjunction with the appropriate primary procedure code.

5. When to use CPT code 78730

CPT code 78730 should be used when performing a urinary bladder residual study in addition to the primary procedure, which is a ureteral reflux study (CPT code 78740). It is important to report both codes together to accurately capture the complete procedure. CPT 78730 should not be reported without the appropriate primary code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 78730, the provider must document the following information:

• Indication for performing the urinary bladder residual study
• Details of the primary procedure, including the code for the ureteral reflux study (CPT code 78740)
• Date and time of the procedure
• Administration of contrast dye and radioisotope
• Findings and assessment of any functional abnormalities in the urinary bladder
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 78730, it is important to ensure that the procedure is performed in conjunction with the appropriate primary procedure code (CPT code 78740). Payers may not reimburse for CPT code 78730 if it is reported without the primary code. If reporting only the provider’s interpretation for the radiology service, append modifier 26 to the radiology code. If reporting only the technical component, append modifier TC to the radiology code. However, it is important to review payer policies as hospitals may be exempt from appending modifier TC. When reporting a global service in which one provider renders both the professional and technical components, do not append a professional or technical modifier to the radiology code.

8. Historical information

CPT code 78730 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 ureteral reflux study (CPT code 78740) followed by a urinary bladder residual study (CPT code 78730) to evaluate any functional abnormalities in the bladder.
2. After a ureteral reflux study, a provider performs a urinary bladder residual study (CPT code 78730) to assess the bladder’s function in a patient with suspected bladder dysfunction.
3. During a diagnostic workup, a patient undergoes a ureteral reflux study (CPT code 78740) and a urinary bladder residual study (CPT code 78730) to evaluate any abnormalities in the urinary system.
4. A provider performs a urinary bladder residual study (CPT code 78730) as part of a comprehensive evaluation of a patient with recurrent urinary tract infections.
5. After a ureteral reflux study, a provider conducts a urinary bladder residual study (CPT code 78730) to assess the bladder’s function in a patient with a history of urinary incontinence.
6. A patient undergoes a ureteral reflux study (CPT code 78740) followed by a urinary bladder residual study (CPT code 78730) to evaluate any functional defects in the bladder after a surgical procedure.
7. During a diagnostic imaging session, a provider performs a urinary bladder residual study (CPT code 78730) to assess the bladder’s function in a patient with suspected bladder outlet obstruction.
8. A patient with a history of bladder dysfunction undergoes a ureteral reflux study (CPT code 78740) and a urinary bladder residual study (CPT code 78730) to evaluate any abnormalities in the urinary system.
9. After a ureteral reflux study, a provider performs a urinary bladder residual study (CPT code 78730) to assess the bladder’s function in a patient with recurrent urinary tract infections.