How To Use CPT Code 82810

CPT 82810 describes the direct measurement of O2 saturation in blood using a method other than pulse oximetry. 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 82810?

CPT 82810 can be used to describe the direct measurement of O2 saturation in blood using a method other than pulse oximetry. This code is used when a lab analyst performs an arterial blood gas (ABG) test using arterial blood inserted into a blood gas analyzer to measure various parameters, including the amount of oxygen (O2) in the blood. The O2 saturation, also known as sO2, is the percentage of blood carrying oxygen, which helps clinicians determine if the patient requires supplemental oxygen.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 82810 is: ‘Gases, blood, O2 saturation only, by direct measurement, except pulse oximetry.’ This code specifically excludes pulse oximetry, which is a noninvasive method of checking the patient’s pulse and oxygen saturation using a device that clips on the finger. For pulse oximetry, a different code, such as 94760, should be used.

3. Procedure

1. The lab analyst receives a heparinized arterial blood specimen obtained through arterial puncture or withdrawal from an arterial catheter.
2. The analyst inserts the arterial blood sample into a blood gas analyzer.
3. The blood gas analyzer detects the unique light-absorbing property of oxygenated hemoglobin and reports it as a percentage of total hemoglobin.
4. The analyst interprets the results and verifies that the blood sample is arterial, not venous, as blood gas values vary depending on the source.
5. If the O2 saturation is low, it may indicate hypoxia, prompting the clinician to consider supplemental oxygen.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 82810 is used when a lab analyst performs direct measurement of O2 saturation in blood using a method other than pulse oximetry. This code applies to cases where an ABG test is conducted using arterial blood obtained through arterial puncture or withdrawal from an arterial catheter. The analyst must ensure that the blood sample is arterial and not venous, as the values may differ. The code does not cover pulse oximetry, which is a separate noninvasive method of measuring oxygen saturation.

5. When to use CPT code 82810

CPT code 82810 should be used when a direct measurement of O2 saturation in blood is required, using a method other than pulse oximetry. This code is appropriate for cases where an ABG test is performed to assess the patient’s oxygen saturation. If pulse oximetry is used instead, a different code, such as 94760, should be reported.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 82810, the following documentation is required:

• Indication of the need for direct measurement of O2 saturation in blood
• Details of the method used for the measurement
• Date and time of the procedure
• Interpretation of the results
• Verification that the blood sample is arterial

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 82810, ensure that the direct measurement of O2 saturation in blood is performed using a method other than pulse oximetry. This code should not be reported if pulse oximetry is used. It is important to note that some payers may provide separate reimbursement for the arterial puncture or withdrawal of blood for diagnosis, which should be reported with a different code, such as 36600. Familiarize yourself with the specific guidelines of the payer to ensure accurate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT code 82810 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1994. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A lab analyst performs a direct measurement of O2 saturation in arterial blood using a blood gas analyzer for a patient with suspected hypoxia.
2. During an ABG test, the analyst measures the O2 saturation in arterial blood to assess the patient’s oxygen levels before and after a surgical procedure.
3. A patient with chronic respiratory disease undergoes an ABG test to monitor their O2 saturation and determine the need for supplemental oxygen.
4. As part of a comprehensive metabolic panel, the lab analyst measures the O2 saturation in arterial blood to evaluate the patient’s overall health status.
5. A critically ill patient in the intensive care unit receives regular ABG tests to monitor their O2 saturation and guide the administration of oxygen therapy.