CPT® Code 0841T | Case2Code

Official Description

Digitization of glass microscope slides for pathology consultation during surgery; first tissue block, with frozen section(s), single specimen (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 0841T refers to the process of digitizing glass microscope slides specifically for pathology consultation during surgical procedures. This involves converting traditional glass slides into a digital format, allowing for the images to be stored either on a local computer server or in a cloud-based archive. The digitization process facilitates further examination of the tissue samples, which can be conducted by a remote pathologist or through the use of advanced computer algorithms that assist in providing a pathologic diagnosis. This method of analysis is distinct from the traditional approach of direct visualization through a microscope, as it enables a more versatile and comprehensive examination of the specimens. The information obtained from this digitization can be effectively managed and interpreted within an increasingly image-based medical environment. It is important to note that this code is applicable when the digitization is performed concurrently with the preparation of the first tissue block that includes frozen sections for pathological consultation during surgery. For additional tissue blocks, a different code, CPT® 0842T, should be reported separately.

1. Indications

The digitization of glass microscope slides for pathology consultation during surgery, as described by CPT® Code 0841T, is indicated for the following:

Pathological Consultation This procedure is performed to facilitate a timely and accurate pathological consultation during surgical interventions, allowing for immediate diagnostic insights.
Frozen Section Analysis It is specifically indicated when a frozen section is prepared from the first tissue block, enabling rapid assessment of the tissue for diagnostic purposes.
Remote Pathology Review The digitization allows for remote pathologists to review the slides, which is particularly beneficial in situations where immediate on-site pathology expertise is not available.

2. Procedure

The procedure for digitization of glass microscope slides involves several key steps:

Preparation of the Tissue Block Initially, the tissue specimen is prepared into a tissue block, which is then subjected to the freezing process to preserve the cellular architecture for examination.
Creation of Frozen Sections Once the tissue block is frozen, thin sections are cut from the block using a microtome. These sections are then placed onto glass microscope slides for further analysis.
Digitization of Slides The prepared glass slides are then scanned using a specialized digital scanner that captures high-resolution images of the tissue sections. This process converts the physical slides into a digital format.
Storage and Management of Digital Images The digitized images are stored on a local computer server or in a cloud-based archive, allowing for easy access and management of the images for future reference and analysis.
Pathological Review The digital images can be reviewed by pathologists remotely or analyzed using computer algorithms, enhancing the diagnostic capabilities beyond traditional microscopy.

3. Post-Procedure

After the digitization procedure is completed, the digital images are available for immediate review by pathologists, which can expedite the diagnostic process. The physical glass slides remain available for further examination if necessary. It is essential to ensure that the digital storage system is secure and compliant with relevant regulations to protect patient information. Follow-up may include additional consultations based on the findings from the digitized images, and any further necessary procedures will be determined by the pathologist's assessment.

Short Descr	DGTZ GLS MCRSCP PTH CSLT 1ST
Medium Descr	DGTZ GLS MCRSCP SLD PATH CNSLT DRG SRG 1ST TIS 1
Long Descr	Digitization of glass microscope slides for pathology consultation during surgery; first tissue block, with frozen section(s), single specimen (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)
Status Code	Carriers Price the Code
Global Days	ZZZ - Code Related to Another Service
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	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	Items and Services Packaged into APC Rates
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS)	none
MUE	Not applicable/unspecified.

This is an add-on code that must be used in conjunction with one of these primary codes.

88331

MPFS Status: Active Code APC Q1 PUB 100 CPT Assistant Article Pathology consultation during surgery; first tissue block, with frozen section(s), single specimen