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CPT®
0104T

CPT® Code 0104T
Deleted

Code deleted, to report see 93799

Official Description

Inert gas rebreathing for cardiac output measurement; during rest

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 0104T involves the use of inert gas rebreathing to measure cardiac output during a state of rest. This technique utilizes an inert gas, commonly helium, which the patient inhales and subsequently rebreathes. The primary purpose of this procedure is to accurately assess the volume of blood that the heart pumps, known as cardiac output. By measuring how the inert gas is absorbed and eliminated from the body, healthcare professionals can derive important information regarding the efficiency and performance of the heart under resting conditions. This method is particularly valuable in clinical settings for evaluating cardiac function and diagnosing potential cardiovascular issues without the influence of physical exertion, which can alter the results. It is important to note that if the measurement is conducted while the patient is exercising, a different CPT® code, 0105T, should be utilized to reflect the change in the testing conditions.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The indications for performing the inert gas rebreathing procedure for cardiac output measurement using CPT® Code 0104T include the following:

  • Assessment of Cardiac Function This procedure is indicated for evaluating the heart's ability to pump blood effectively during a resting state, which can help in diagnosing various cardiac conditions.
  • Monitoring Heart Disease It may be used in patients with known heart disease to monitor changes in cardiac output over time, providing insights into the progression of the disease.
  • Preoperative Evaluation The test can be part of a preoperative assessment to determine cardiac function before surgical procedures, especially in patients with risk factors for cardiovascular complications.
  • Evaluation of Symptoms Patients presenting with symptoms such as unexplained fatigue, shortness of breath, or other signs of potential heart dysfunction may be evaluated using this procedure to ascertain cardiac output.

2. Procedure

The procedure for inert gas rebreathing for cardiac output measurement involves several key steps, which are detailed below:

  • Step 1: Patient Preparation The patient is prepared for the procedure by ensuring they are at rest and in a comfortable position. Baseline vital signs may be recorded to establish a reference point for the test.
  • Step 2: Inert Gas Administration The patient is instructed to inhale a specific inert gas, typically helium, which is delivered through a breathing apparatus. This gas is chosen for its non-reactive properties, allowing for safe measurement without affecting the patient's physiology.
  • Step 3: Rebreathing Process After inhalation, the patient rebreathes the gas in a controlled manner. This process allows for the measurement of how the gas is absorbed and eliminated from the body, which is crucial for calculating cardiac output.
  • Step 4: Data Collection During the rebreathing phase, data is collected using specialized equipment that monitors the concentration of the inert gas in the patient's exhaled air. This data is essential for determining the volume of blood pumped by the heart.
  • Step 5: Analysis and Interpretation Once the data collection is complete, the results are analyzed to calculate the cardiac output. Healthcare professionals interpret these results to assess the patient's cardiac function.

3. Post-Procedure

After the completion of the inert gas rebreathing procedure, the patient may be monitored briefly to ensure there are no immediate adverse reactions to the test. Typically, there are no significant post-procedure care requirements, as the procedure is non-invasive and does not involve any sedation. Patients can usually resume their normal activities shortly after the test. However, healthcare providers may discuss the results with the patient during a follow-up appointment, where further evaluation or treatment options may be considered based on the findings of the cardiac output measurement.
Short Descr AT REST CARDIO GAS REBREATHE
Medium Descr INERT GAS RBRTHING CAR OUTPUT MEAS REST
Long Descr Inert gas rebreathing for cardiac output measurement; during rest
Status Code Carriers Price the Code
Global Days XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 0 - No payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Service Paid under Fee Schedule or Payment System other than OPPS
Type of Service (TOS) 9 - Other Medical Items or Services
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) none
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 62 - Other diagnostic cardiovascular procedures
Date
Action
Notes
2011-01-01 Deleted Code deleted, to report see 93799
2006-01-01 Added Code added.
Code
Description
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