CPT® Code 0830T

Add-On Code

1. Indications

The procedure associated with CPT® Code 0830T is indicated for the digitization of glass microscope slides in cytopathology, particularly when a selective-cellular enhancement technique is utilized. This procedure is performed to facilitate the examination of cellular specimens that have been prepared using a liquid-based slide preparation method. The indications for this procedure include, but are not limited to, the need for enhanced visualization of cellular structures for diagnostic purposes, the requirement for remote analysis by pathologists, and the application of computer algorithms to assist in the pathologic diagnosis. It is important to note that this procedure is not applicable for cervical or vaginal specimens.

• Enhanced Visualization The procedure allows for improved examination of cellular structures within cytopathology specimens.
• Remote Analysis Enables pathologists to analyze slides from remote locations, increasing accessibility to expert evaluations.
• Computer-Assisted Diagnosis Utilizes algorithms to aid in the interpretation of pathologic findings, enhancing diagnostic accuracy.

2. Procedure

The procedure for CPT® Code 0830T involves several key steps that ensure the effective digitization of glass microscope slides. First, the specimen is collected and prepared using a liquid-based slide preparation method. This involves swirling the specimen in a liquid medium to suspend and preserve the cells, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the cellular structures. Next, the prepared specimen is filtered to remove any debris, allowing for a clearer view of the cells. Once filtered, the cells are evenly distributed onto a glass slide, creating a uniform layer that is essential for accurate examination. After the slide preparation is complete, the glass microscope slide is then scanned using a specialized digitization device. This device captures high-resolution images of the slide, converting them into a digital format that can be stored on a local server or in a cloud-based archive. The digitized images can then be accessed by pathologists for further analysis, interpretation, and reporting of the pathologic diagnosis. It is important to report CPT® Code 0830T when this digitization process occurs simultaneously with the glass slide preparation, excluding any cervical or vaginal specimens.

• Specimen Collection and Preparation The specimen is collected and prepared using a liquid-based method to ensure cell preservation.
• Filtration The prepared specimen is filtered to eliminate debris, enhancing clarity for examination.
• Cell Distribution Cells are evenly distributed onto a glass slide to create a uniform layer for accurate analysis.
• Digitization The glass slide is scanned to create high-resolution digital images for storage and remote access.

3. Post-Procedure

After the digitization of glass microscope slides using CPT® Code 0830T, the expected post-procedure care involves ensuring that the digital images are securely stored and easily accessible for pathologists. The digital format allows for efficient management of the images, enabling further interpretation and analysis as needed. It is essential to maintain the integrity of the digital archive, ensuring that the images can be retrieved without loss of quality. Additionally, any findings or diagnoses derived from the digitized slides should be documented accurately in the patient's medical records. Follow-up procedures may include further diagnostic testing or consultations based on the interpretations made from the digitized images. As this procedure does not involve invasive techniques, recovery is immediate, and patients typically do not require any specific post-procedure care.