CPT® Code 0145T

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1. Indications

The procedure associated with CPT® Code 0145T is indicated for various clinical scenarios where detailed visualization of the heart's structure and morphology is necessary. The following conditions may warrant the use of this imaging technique:

• Cardiac Abnormalities The procedure is performed to evaluate any structural abnormalities of the heart, including congenital defects or acquired conditions that may affect cardiac function.
• Coronary Artery Disease It is indicated for assessing the presence and extent of coronary artery disease, helping to visualize blockages or narrowing of the coronary arteries.
• Cardiac Masses The imaging may be utilized to identify and characterize cardiac masses, such as tumors or thrombi, providing critical information for diagnosis and treatment planning.
• Preoperative Assessment This procedure is often indicated as part of the preoperative evaluation for patients undergoing cardiac surgery, ensuring that surgeons have a clear understanding of the cardiac anatomy.

2. Procedure

The procedure for CPT® Code 0145T involves several key steps to ensure accurate imaging of the heart. The following outlines the detailed procedural steps:

• Step 1: Patient Preparation Prior to the imaging procedure, the patient is prepared by explaining the process and obtaining informed consent. The patient may be instructed to refrain from eating or drinking for a specified period before the scan, and any contraindications to contrast material should be assessed.
• Step 2: Administration of Contrast Material If indicated, contrast material is administered intravenously to enhance the imaging quality. The contrast agent is carefully injected to ensure optimal distribution throughout the cardiac structures, allowing for clearer visualization during the scan.
• Step 3: Cardiac Gating Setup The imaging technician sets up the cardiac gating system, which involves attaching electrodes to the patient's chest to monitor the heart's rhythm. This setup is crucial for synchronizing the CT scanner with the cardiac cycle, ensuring that images are captured at the appropriate moments when the heart is at rest.
• Step 4: Image Acquisition The CT scanner is then activated to begin the imaging process. The scanner rotates around the patient, capturing multiple two-dimensional images from various angles. The cardiac gating mechanism ensures that images are taken during the diastolic phase of the cardiac cycle, resulting in high-resolution images of the heart.
• Step 5: Image Processing After the images are acquired, the data is processed using advanced computer algorithms to reconstruct three-dimensional images of the heart. This postprocessing step allows for detailed analysis of the cardiac structures and morphology.

3. Post-Procedure

Following the completion of the imaging procedure, patients are typically monitored for a short period to ensure there are no adverse reactions to the contrast material. They may be advised to hydrate adequately to help flush the contrast agent from their system. The results of the CT scan are then analyzed by a radiologist, who will provide a detailed report on the findings. This report is essential for the referring physician to make informed decisions regarding further diagnostic testing or treatment options based on the heart's structural and functional assessment.