CPT® Code 0243T | Case2Code

Code deleted, to report see 94799

Official Description

Intermittent measurement of wheeze rate for bronchodilator or bronchial-challenge diagnostic evaluation(s), with interpretation and report

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 0243T refers to the intermittent measurement of wheeze rate, which is a diagnostic evaluation used primarily in the management of asthma. This procedure involves the placement of two acoustic sensors on the patient: one sensor is positioned on the neck, just to the right of the trachea, while the other is located on the upper right side of the chest, specifically at the midclavicular line over the second intercostal space. These sensors are designed to track and record the sounds of breathing, enabling the detection of wheezing, which is a common symptom in patients with asthma. Additionally, a respiration belt is utilized, which is placed around the lower ribs. This belt collects vital data regarding the respiratory rate, the phase of breathing, and the ratio of inspiration to expiration. The sensor cables from the acoustic sensors and the respiration belt are connected to a sensor interface unit, which in turn is linked to a computer system that records and analyzes the collected data. During the procedure described by CPT® Code 0243T, intermittent measurements of wheezing are taken, and the administration of bronchodilators may occur, or bronchial challenge testing may be performed while the patient is being monitored. This process allows for a comprehensive assessment of the patient's respiratory function. Following the data collection, the physician is responsible for reviewing the recorded information and providing a detailed written interpretation of the findings, which is crucial for guiding further management and treatment of the patient's condition.

1. Indications

The procedure associated with CPT® Code 0243T is indicated for the evaluation and management of asthma and related respiratory conditions. The specific indications for performing intermittent measurement of wheeze rate include:

Asthma Management The procedure is utilized to assess wheezing, which is a hallmark symptom of asthma, and to evaluate the effectiveness of bronchodilator therapy.
Bronchial Challenge Testing This procedure may be indicated when a bronchial challenge test is necessary to determine the patient's airway responsiveness and to identify potential triggers for wheezing.
Monitoring Treatment Response Intermittent measurement of wheeze rate can help in monitoring the patient's response to treatment, particularly in adjusting bronchodilator therapy.

2. Procedure

The procedure for CPT® Code 0243T involves several key steps to ensure accurate measurement and evaluation of wheeze rate. The steps are as follows:

Step 1: Patient Preparation The patient is prepared for the procedure by ensuring they are in a comfortable position, typically seated, to facilitate proper sensor placement and monitoring.
Step 2: Sensor Placement Two acoustic sensors are carefully placed on the patient. One sensor is positioned on the neck, just to the right of the trachea, while the other is placed on the upper right side of the chest at the midclavicular line over the second intercostal space. This strategic placement allows for optimal detection of wheezing sounds during respiration.
Step 3: Respiration Belt Application A respiration belt is then placed around the lower ribs of the patient. This belt is crucial for collecting data on the respiratory rate, the phase of breathing, and the inspiration to expiration ratio, which are essential for a comprehensive analysis of the patient's respiratory function.
Step 4: Connection to Sensor Interface Unit The cables from the acoustic sensors and the respiration belt are connected to a sensor interface unit. This unit is linked to a computer system that will record and analyze the data collected during the procedure.
Step 5: Intermittent Measurement Intermittent measurements of wheezing are performed while the patient may receive bronchodilator therapy or undergo bronchial challenge testing. This monitoring is essential for assessing the patient's respiratory response during the evaluation.
Step 6: Data Review and Interpretation After the measurements are completed, the physician reviews the recorded data. A detailed written interpretation of the findings is then provided, which is critical for guiding further management and treatment decisions for the patient.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care following the intermittent measurement of wheeze rate involves monitoring the patient for any immediate reactions to bronchodilator administration or bronchial challenge testing. The physician will review the findings from the recorded data and discuss the results with the patient, including any necessary adjustments to their asthma management plan. Patients may be advised on follow-up appointments to reassess their condition and treatment efficacy based on the interpretation of the wheeze rate measurements. Additionally, any adverse reactions or complications should be documented and addressed promptly to ensure patient safety and optimal care.

Short Descr	INTM MSR BRONCHODIL WHEEZE
Medium Descr	INTERMIT MEAS WHEEZE RATE BRONCHODIL DX W/I&R
Long Descr	Intermittent measurement of wheeze rate for bronchodilator or bronchial-challenge diagnostic evaluation(s), with interpretation and report
Status Code	Carriers Price the Code
Global Days	YYY - Carrier Determines Whether Global Concept Applies
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC)	1 - Diagnostic Tests for Radiology Services
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	STV-Packaged Codes
Type of Service (TOS)	9 - Other Medical Items or Services
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS)	none
MUE	Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification	40 - Other diagnostic procedures of respiratory tract and mediastinum