CPT® Code 38215

Official Description

Transplant preparation of hematopoietic progenitor cells; cell concentration in plasma, mononuclear, or buffy coat layer

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 38215 refers to the process of transplant preparation of hematopoietic progenitor cells, specifically focusing on the concentration of these cells within the plasma, mononuclear, or buffy coat layer. Hematopoietic progenitor cells are essential components in the field of transplantation, as they are responsible for the formation of blood cells. This procedure involves the treatment of previously harvested hematopoietic progenitor cells, which are typically collected for the purpose of transplantation. The harvested cells are preserved using a cryoprotectant solution, which helps to protect them during storage at low temperatures. When the time comes for infusion, these cells are thawed and prepared for administration to the patient. It is important to note that if the volume of cells is reduced by the removal of plasma from the harvested collection, the appropriate code to use would be 38214. Conversely, if the reduction in volume is achieved by extracting a portion of the concentration of mononuclear cells or the buffy coat layer of white blood cells from the plasma, then CPT® Code 38215 should be utilized. This distinction is crucial for accurate coding and billing in the context of hematopoietic cell transplantation.

1. Indications

The procedure associated with CPT® Code 38215 is indicated for the preparation of hematopoietic progenitor cells that have been previously harvested for transplantation. This preparation is essential for ensuring that the cells are in an optimal state for infusion into the patient. The indications for this procedure may include:

Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation - This procedure is performed when a patient requires a transplant of hematopoietic progenitor cells to restore blood cell production, often due to conditions such as leukemia, lymphoma, or other hematological disorders.
Cell Preservation - The preparation is necessary to ensure that the harvested cells are preserved effectively, maintaining their viability and functionality for future use in transplantation.

2. Procedure

The procedure for CPT® Code 38215 involves several critical steps to ensure the proper preparation of hematopoietic progenitor cells. These steps include:

Cell Thawing - The first step in the procedure is the careful thawing of the cryopreserved hematopoietic progenitor cells. This is done to bring the cells back to a temperature suitable for further processing and infusion. The thawing process must be conducted under controlled conditions to prevent damage to the cells.
Cell Concentration - Following thawing, the next step involves concentrating the cells. This can be achieved by separating the mononuclear cells or the buffy coat layer from the plasma. The concentration process is crucial as it enhances the number of viable cells available for infusion, which is essential for the success of the transplantation.
Quality Control - After concentration, quality control measures are implemented to assess the viability and functionality of the hematopoietic progenitor cells. This may include testing for cell count and ensuring that the cells meet the necessary criteria for transplantation.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care following the preparation of hematopoietic progenitor cells is vital to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the transplantation process. After the cells have been prepared, they are typically infused into the patient as part of the transplantation protocol. Monitoring of the patient is essential to observe for any immediate reactions to the infusion. Additionally, healthcare providers will assess the patient's recovery and response to the transplant over time, ensuring that any complications are addressed promptly. Documentation of the procedure and the condition of the cells post-preparation is also critical for compliance and billing purposes.

Short Descr	HARVEST STEM CELL CONCENTRTE
Medium Descr	TRNSPL PREPJ HEMATOP PROGEN CONCENTRATION PLSM
Long Descr	Transplant preparation of hematopoietic progenitor cells; cell concentration in plasma, mononuclear, or buffy coat layer
Status Code	Not Valid for Medicare Purposes
Global Days	XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
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	Procedure or Service, Not Discounted when Multiple
Type of Service (TOS)	5 - Diagnostic Laboratory
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS)	T1G - Lab tests - other (Medicare fee schedule)
MUE	0
CCS Clinical Classification	64 - Bone marrow transplant