CPT® Code 38213

1. Indications

The procedure associated with CPT® Code 38213 is indicated for patients who require hematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation, particularly when there is a need to deplete platelets from the harvested cell collection. This may be necessary in various clinical scenarios, including:

• Bone Marrow Disorders Patients with conditions such as leukemia, lymphoma, or other malignancies that affect the bone marrow may require transplantation of hematopoietic progenitor cells to restore healthy blood cell production.
• Stem Cell Transplantation Individuals undergoing stem cell transplantation may need their harvested cells processed to ensure that they are free from excess platelets, which can complicate the infusion process.
• Platelet-Related Complications Patients who have experienced complications related to high platelet counts or who are at risk for thrombotic events may benefit from the platelet depletion process to enhance the safety of the transplantation.

2. Procedure

The procedure for CPT® Code 38213 involves several critical steps to ensure the effective preparation of hematopoietic progenitor cells. These steps include:

• Step 1: Thawing of Cells The previously harvested hematopoietic progenitor cells, which have been preserved in a cryoprotectant solution and stored at low temperatures, are carefully thawed. This process is crucial as it reactivates the cells, making them ready for further processing.
• Step 2: Platelet Depletion Once thawed, the cell collection undergoes a specific procedure to remove platelets. This may involve centrifugation or filtration techniques designed to separate platelets from the hematopoietic progenitor cells, ensuring that the final product is free from excess platelets.
• Step 3: Quality Control After the platelet depletion process, the prepared hematopoietic progenitor cells are subjected to quality control measures. This step is essential to confirm that the cells meet the necessary criteria for safe infusion, including viability and purity.
• Step 4: Preparation for Infusion Finally, the processed hematopoietic progenitor cells are prepared for infusion back into the patient. This may involve re-suspending the cells in an appropriate solution and ensuring that all documentation and labeling are accurate for the transplantation procedure.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care following the platelet depletion of hematopoietic progenitor cells is critical to ensure patient safety and successful transplantation. Patients are typically monitored for any adverse reactions to the infusion, including potential allergic responses or complications related to the removal of platelets. Additionally, healthcare providers may conduct follow-up assessments to evaluate the engraftment of the transplanted cells and the patient's overall recovery. It is essential to provide supportive care, including managing any symptoms related to the underlying condition and monitoring blood counts to ensure that the patient is responding well to the transplantation process. Documentation of the procedure and any post-infusion observations is also crucial for ongoing patient management and compliance with regulatory standards.