How To Use CPT Code 88241

CPT 88241 describes the process of thawing and expanding previously frozen cells in a single aliquot. 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 88241?

CPT 88241 is used to describe the thawing and expansion of previously frozen cells in a single aliquot. This code is specifically used when the analyst retrieves a small portion of a cell line preserved in a freezer and warms it to a specific temperature to prevent damage. The cells are then placed onto expansion media to resume growth.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 88241 is: ‘Thawing and expansion of frozen cells, each aliquot.’

3. Procedure

1. The analyst retrieves an aliquot of a cell line preserved in a freezer.
2. The aliquot is warmed by placing it in a water bath at 37 degrees Celsius and gently agitating it.
3. If necessary, the sample may be centrifuged to remove any cryopreservative.
4. The cells are then placed onto expansion media to resume growth.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 88241 is used when the thawing and expansion of previously frozen cells is required. This code is specifically used for cells that have been preserved in a freezer and need to be thawed and expanded for further use. It does not apply to therapeutic use of hematopoietic progenitor cells.

5. When to use CPT code 88241

CPT code 88241 should be used when there is a need to thaw and expand previously frozen cells in a single aliquot. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific requirements outlined in the code description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 88241, the documentation should include:

• Details of the cell line and the need for thawing and expansion
• Date and time of the procedure
• Specific steps taken during the procedure, such as warming the aliquot and placing the cells onto expansion media
• Any additional relevant information or observations

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 88241, ensure that the procedure meets the specific requirements outlined in the code description. It is important to accurately document and code the procedure to ensure proper reimbursement. There are no specific guidelines regarding reporting CPT 88241 with other codes.

8. Historical information

CPT 88241 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1999. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. An analyst thaws and expands previously frozen cells in a single aliquot to continue research on a specific cell line.
2. A laboratory technician warms an aliquot of frozen cells to prepare them for further analysis and experimentation.
3. A scientist thaws and expands previously frozen cells in a single aliquot to study their behavior and characteristics.
4. A research assistant thaws and expands previously frozen cells in a single aliquot to perform genetic testing.
5. A biologist thaws and expands previously frozen cells in a single aliquot to investigate their response to different stimuli.
6. A medical researcher thaws and expands previously frozen cells in a single aliquot to develop new treatments or therapies.
7. A technician thaws and expands previously frozen cells in a single aliquot to produce a sufficient quantity for a specific experiment.
8. A scientist thaws and expands previously frozen cells in a single aliquot to study their growth and development.
9. A laboratory assistant thaws and expands previously frozen cells in a single aliquot to perform quality control tests.
10. A researcher thaws and expands previously frozen cells in a single aliquot to investigate their potential applications in regenerative medicine.