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Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) is a diagnostic procedure utilized to assess whole body composition by estimating various components such as total body water, fat-free mass (FFM), body fat (adiposity), and body cell mass. This method is characterized by its simplicity, rapid execution, and non-invasive nature, making it an effective tool for monitoring nutritional status, identifying malnutrition, evaluating hydration levels, and analyzing the effects of weight loss and fasting. The procedure calculates the body composition by determining the ratio of fat to lean mass. Typically, BIA is conducted with the patient in a supine position, with arms and legs positioned away from the body to ensure accurate readings. Electrodes are strategically placed on a hand and foot or on various body parts to facilitate the measurement process. The monitoring device is calibrated with the patient's specific physical characteristics, including height, weight, gender, body type, and activity level. During the assessment, a low-level electrical current is transmitted from the input electrode, circulating through the body to the output electrode via charged ions such as sodium and potassium. The resistance encountered by the electrical signal, known as impedance, is measured as it traverses through the body's tissues, which contain varying levels of water. The electrical conduction is highest in blood and urine, intermediate in muscle tissue, and lowest in bone, fat, and air. Consequently, a higher body fat percentage results in increased resistance. The voltage difference between the electrodes is recorded and analyzed to derive the levels of body fluid, body fat content, and lean muscle mass. The findings are then interpreted by a physician or technician, culminating in a comprehensive written report. An alternative method involves the use of a precision bioelectrical impedance analysis scale, which operates similarly but allows the patient to step onto the scale for measurement. The foot sensor pads in this device emit the low-level electrical signal throughout the body, enabling the scale to compute body fat content accurately.
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The bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) procedure is indicated for various clinical and health-related assessments. The following conditions and situations warrant the use of BIA:
The bioelectrical impedance analysis procedure involves several key steps to ensure accurate assessment of body composition. The following outlines the procedural steps:
After the bioelectrical impedance analysis is completed, the patient may resume normal activities immediately, as the procedure is non-invasive and does not require any recovery time. The physician or technician will review the report with the patient, discussing the implications of the findings and any necessary follow-up actions. It is important for the patient to maintain proper hydration and nutrition, as these factors can influence future assessments. Regular monitoring may be recommended to track changes in body composition over time, especially in cases of weight management or nutritional interventions.
| Short Descr | BIA WHOLE BODY | Medium Descr | BIA WHOLE BODY COMPOSITION ASSESSMENT W/I&R | Long Descr | Bioelectrical impedance analysis whole body composition assessment, with interpretation and report | Status Code | Carriers Price the Code | Global Days | YYY - Carrier Determines Whether Global Concept Applies | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 9 - Not Applicable | Multiple Procedures (51) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Bilateral Surgery (50) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Physician Supervisions | 09 - Concept does not apply. | Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Co-Surgeons (62) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Team Surgery (66) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Diagnostic Imaging Family | 99 - Concept Does Not Apply | APC Status Indicator | STV-Packaged Codes | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | T2D - Other tests - other | MUE | 1 |
| GY | Item or service statutorily excluded, does not meet the definition of any medicare benefit or, for non-medicare insurers, is not a contract benefit | 59 | Distinct procedural service: under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was distinct or independent from other non-e/m services performed on the same day. modifier 59 is used to identify procedures/services, other than e/m services, that are not normally reported together, but are appropriate under the circumstances. documentation must support a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of injury in extensive injuries) not ordinarily encountered or performed on the same day by the same individual. however, when another already established modifier is appropriate it should be used rather than modifier 59. only if no more descriptive modifier is available, and the use of modifier 59 best explains the circumstances, should modifier 59 be used. note: modifier 59 should not be appended to an e/m service. to report a separate and distinct e/m service with a non-e/m service performed on the same date, see modifier 25. | GA | Waiver of liability statement issued as required by payer policy, individual case | 56 | Preoperative management only: when 1 physician or other qualified health care professional performed the preoperative care and evaluation and another performed the surgical procedure, the preoperative component may be identified by adding modifier 56 to the usual procedure number. | GX | Notice of liability issued, voluntary under payer policy | XU | Unusual non-overlapping service, the use of a service that is distinct because it does not overlap usual components of the main service |
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| 2016-01-01 | Changed | Description Changed |
| 2015-01-01 | Added | First appearance in codebook. |
| 2014-07-01 | Added | Added |
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