How To Use CPT Code 78808

CPT 78808 describes the procedure for radiopharmaceutical localization using an intravenous injection and a non-imaging probe study. This article will cover the description, official details, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 78808?

CPT 78808 can be used to describe the procedure in which a provider performs an intravenous injection of a gamma-emitting radioactive tracer for localization of a structure using a gamma probe. This code is specifically for non-imaging studies, where the gamma probe is used to sense the gamma rays emitted by the radioactive substance to localize the target structure.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 78808 is: ‘Injection procedure for radiopharmaceutical localization by non-imaging probe study, intravenous (eg, parathyroid adenoma)’. This code is used when the provider performs an intravenous injection of a gamma-emitting radioactive tracer and uses a gamma probe to localize a structure.

3. Procedure

1. The provider administers an intravenous injection of a gamma-emitting radioactive tracer.
2. The radioactive substance flows through the bloodstream and reaches the target structure.
3. The provider uses a gamma probe, a handheld device, to localize the target structure by sensing the gamma rays emitted by the radioactive substance.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 78808 is used for cases where the provider needs to localize a structure using a non-imaging probe study. This procedure is typically performed for structures such as parathyroid adenomas. It is important to note that the cost of the radiopharmaceutical substance may be reported separately using the appropriate code.

5. When to use CPT code 78808

CPT code 78808 should be used when a provider performs an intravenous injection of a gamma-emitting radioactive tracer and uses a gamma probe for non-imaging localization of a structure. This code is not appropriate for imaging studies or other procedures that do not involve the use of a gamma probe for localization.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 78808, the provider must document the following information:

• Details of the intravenous injection of the radioactive tracer
• Description of the target structure being localized
• Use of the gamma probe for localization
• Date and time of the procedure
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 78808, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for non-imaging probe study localization using an intravenous injection. It is important to follow the guidelines for reporting the radiopharmaceutical substance separately if necessary. Consider the use of appropriate modifiers if applicable.

8. Historical information

CPT 78808 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2009. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs an intravenous injection of a gamma-emitting radioactive tracer to localize a parathyroid adenoma using a gamma probe.
2. During a non-imaging probe study, a provider administers an intravenous injection of a radioactive tracer to localize a structure in the patient’s body.
3. Using a gamma probe, a provider performs an intravenous injection of a gamma-emitting radioactive tracer to localize a target structure for further evaluation.
4. A patient undergoes an intravenous injection of a radioactive tracer, and a provider uses a gamma probe to localize a specific structure for diagnostic purposes.
5. During a non-imaging probe study, a provider administers an intravenous injection of a gamma-emitting radioactive tracer to accurately locate a structure in the patient’s body.
6. Using a gamma probe, a provider performs an intravenous injection of a radioactive tracer to precisely localize a target structure for further examination.
7. A patient receives an intravenous injection of a gamma-emitting radioactive tracer, and a provider uses a gamma probe to precisely locate a specific structure for diagnostic assessment.
8. During a non-imaging probe study, a provider administers an intravenous injection of a radioactive tracer to precisely identify and localize a structure in the patient’s body.
9. Using a gamma probe, a provider performs an intravenous injection of a gamma-emitting radioactive tracer to accurately pinpoint the location of a target structure for diagnostic purposes.
10. A patient undergoes an intravenous injection of a radioactive tracer, and a provider uses a gamma probe to precisely locate a specific structure for further evaluation.