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The CPT® Code 0179T refers to an advanced electrocardiogram (ECG) procedure that utilizes 64 leads or more to capture detailed cardiac electrical activity. This procedure is designed to provide a comprehensive graphic presentation and analysis of the heart's electrical signals, specifically focusing on the tracing and graphics without the inclusion of interpretation and report. The standard 12-lead ECG is commonly used to monitor and diagnose various cardiac conditions; however, the addition of more leads enhances the ability to visualize and analyze the heart's electrical activity more accurately. This is particularly beneficial in diagnosing conditions such as myocardial infarction, ventricular tachycardia, and ventricular fibrillation, which are associated with an increased risk of sudden cardiac death, as well as atrial arrhythmias. The placement of the additional leads is strategically determined based on the suspected cardiac condition, allowing for optimal recording of electrical activity. The physician typically reviews a separately reportable 12-lead ECG to assess whether a more extensive 64-lead or greater ECG is warranted for a definitive diagnosis. During the procedure, leads are placed on both the chest and back, either uniformly distributed or concentrated in specific areas, such as over the heart, to ensure comprehensive coverage. The resulting 64-lead ECG generates both an ECG tracing and a graphic representation, which is stored for later processing. This graphic presentation takes the form of a torso body map, which helps localize the area of concern. By analyzing the ECG tracing alongside the graphic representation, the physician can identify the specific lead(s) that provide critical diagnostic information. Any abnormalities detected in the ECG tracing are meticulously noted and characterized. The data from the separately reportable 12-lead ECG, the 64-lead ECG, the graphic torso map, and the stored data are compiled for further analysis. It is important to note that while CPT® Code 0179T is used for the tracing and graphic presentation only, the complete study, including analysis and interpretation, is reported with CPT® Code 0178T, and the interpretation and report portion is reported with CPT® Code 0180T.
© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.
The 64-lead or greater electrocardiogram (ECG) procedure, represented by CPT® Code 0179T, is indicated for various cardiac conditions that require detailed analysis of the heart's electrical activity. The following conditions may warrant the use of this advanced ECG technique:
The procedure for conducting a 64-lead or greater electrocardiogram involves several key steps that ensure accurate data collection and analysis. Each step is crucial for obtaining a comprehensive understanding of the patient's cardiac health.
After the completion of the 64-lead or greater ECG procedure, the patient may be monitored briefly to ensure there are no immediate adverse reactions to the electrode placement. There are typically no specific post-procedure care requirements, as the procedure is non-invasive and does not involve any recovery time. The physician will review the compiled data, including the torso body map and ECG tracing, to interpret the findings. A written report will be generated, summarizing the results and any identified abnormalities. This report may be used for further diagnostic evaluation or treatment planning, depending on the patient's clinical situation.
| Short Descr | 64 LEAD ECG W/TRACING | Medium Descr | 64 LEAD ECG W/TRACING & GRAPHICS | Long Descr | Electrocardiogram, 64 leads or greater, with graphic presentation and analysis; tracing and graphics only, without interpretation and report | Status Code | Carriers Price the Code | Global Days | XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 3 - Technical Component Only 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 | 01 - Procedure must be performed under the general supervision of a physician. | 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 | STV-Packaged Codes | Type of Service (TOS) | 5 - Diagnostic Laboratory | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | T2A - Other tests - electrocardiograms | MUE | Not applicable/unspecified. | CCS Clinical Classification | 202 - Electrocardiogram |
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