How To Use CPT Code 88740

CPT 88740 describes the quantitative evaluation of carboxyhemoglobin using a transcutaneous procedure. This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 88740?

CPT 88740 can be used to describe the quantitative evaluation of carboxyhemoglobin using a noninvasive, transcutaneous procedure. This code is used when an analyst performs a spectrophotometric measurement of carboxyhemoglobin by placing a sensor on the patient’s fingertip to measure multiple wavelengths of light through the skin. Carboxyhemoglobin levels increase in carbon monoxide poisoning, which can occur with exposure to excessive amounts of fumes from exhaust or combustion.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 88740 is: ‘Hemoglobin, quantitative, transcutaneous, per day; carboxyhemoglobin. (For in vitro carboxyhemoglobin measurement, use 82375)’

3. Procedure

1. An analyst performs a quantitative, noninvasive, spectrophotometric measurement of carboxyhemoglobin using a sensor placed on the patient’s fingertip.
2. The sensor measures multiple wavelengths of light transmitted through the skin to determine the level of carboxyhemoglobin.
3. The procedure is performed once per day to evaluate carboxyhemoglobin levels.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 88740 is used when there is a need to evaluate carboxyhemoglobin levels in patients suspected of carbon monoxide poisoning. This procedure is commonly ordered in emergency departments to immediately assess carbon monoxide poisoning due to exposure to excessive amounts of fumes from exhaust or combustion.

5. When to use CPT code 88740

CPT code 88740 should be used when a quantitative evaluation of carboxyhemoglobin is required using a transcutaneous procedure. It is appropriate to bill this code when an analyst performs the procedure to assess carboxyhemoglobin levels in patients suspected of carbon monoxide poisoning.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 88740, the following documentation is required:

• Reason for performing the procedure, such as suspected carbon monoxide poisoning
• Date of the procedure
• Results of the quantitative evaluation of carboxyhemoglobin
• Signature of the analyst performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 88740, ensure that the procedure is performed using a transcutaneous method to evaluate carboxyhemoglobin levels. This code should not be reported for in vitro carboxyhemoglobin measurement, which has a separate code (82375). There are no specific guidelines regarding reporting CPT 88740 with other codes.

8. Historical information

CPT 88740 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. An analyst performs a quantitative evaluation of carboxyhemoglobin using a transcutaneous procedure to assess a patient suspected of carbon monoxide poisoning.
2. A patient presents to the emergency department with symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, and an analyst uses a transcutaneous procedure to measure carboxyhemoglobin levels.
3. During a routine check-up, a clinician orders a quantitative evaluation of carboxyhemoglobin using a transcutaneous procedure to assess the patient’s exposure to carbon monoxide.
4. An individual who works in a high-risk environment for carbon monoxide exposure undergoes a regular assessment of carboxyhemoglobin levels using a transcutaneous procedure.
5. A patient involved in a fire incident undergoes a quantitative evaluation of carboxyhemoglobin using a transcutaneous procedure to assess the extent of carbon monoxide poisoning.