CPT® Code 77403 | Case2Code

Code deleted, see 77402

Official Description

Radiation treatment delivery, single treatment area, single port or parallel opposed ports, simple blocks or no blocks; 6-10 MeV

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 77403 refers to the delivery of radiation treatment specifically designed for a single treatment area using either a single port or parallel opposed ports. This procedure employs simple blocks or may not utilize any blocks at all. The radiation beam utilized in this treatment ranges from 6 to 10 megavolts (MeV), which is a measure of the energy of the radiation being delivered. The primary objective of this procedure is to direct high-energy radiation towards a tumor or cancerous tissue in an effort to destroy it or inhibit its growth. The use of a single treatment area indicates that the focus is on a specific localized region, allowing for targeted therapy that minimizes exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. It is important to note that different codes are designated for varying energy levels of radiation; for instance, a lower energy beam of 5 megavolts or less would not be coded under 77403, while higher energy beams of 11-19 megavolts and 20 megavolts or higher would be coded under 77404 and 77406, respectively. This structured approach to coding ensures accurate representation of the treatment provided and facilitates appropriate billing and reimbursement processes.

1. Indications

The procedure associated with CPT® Code 77403 is indicated for the treatment of localized tumors or cancerous lesions that require targeted radiation therapy. The following conditions may warrant the use of this specific radiation treatment:

Localized Tumors The procedure is performed to treat tumors that are confined to a specific area, allowing for focused radiation delivery.
Cancerous Lesions It is indicated for various types of cancer where radiation therapy is deemed appropriate to destroy or shrink the tumor.
Specific Treatment Protocols The procedure may be part of a broader treatment plan that includes surgery, chemotherapy, or other modalities, particularly when aiming for localized control of the disease.

2. Procedure

The delivery of radiation treatment as described by CPT® Code 77403 involves several key procedural steps:

Preparation of the Treatment Area Prior to the administration of radiation, the treatment area is carefully prepared. This may involve positioning the patient in a manner that optimizes the delivery of radiation to the targeted tumor while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues.
Calibration of Radiation Equipment The radiation delivery system is calibrated to ensure that the beam is set to the appropriate energy level, specifically between 6 to 10 MeV. This calibration is crucial for achieving the desired therapeutic effect while maintaining safety standards.
Delivery of Radiation The physician then directs the radiation beam towards the tumor using either a single port or parallel opposed ports. The use of simple blocks may be employed to shape the radiation field, ensuring that the radiation is concentrated on the tumor and reducing exposure to adjacent healthy tissues.
Monitoring During Treatment Throughout the procedure, the patient is monitored for any immediate reactions or side effects. The healthcare team ensures that the treatment is delivered accurately and safely, adhering to established protocols.

3. Post-Procedure

After the completion of the radiation treatment, patients may be advised on specific post-procedure care. This can include monitoring for any side effects or reactions to the radiation, which may manifest as skin irritation or fatigue. Patients are typically scheduled for follow-up appointments to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and to plan any additional therapies if necessary. It is essential for patients to adhere to any prescribed guidelines regarding activity levels and care of the treatment area to promote optimal recovery and outcomes.

Short Descr	RADIATION TREATMENT DELIVERY
Medium Descr	RADJ DLVR 1 AREA 1/PRLL OPSD PORTS SMPL 6-10MEV
Long Descr	Radiation treatment delivery, single treatment area, single port or parallel opposed ports, simple blocks or no blocks; 6-10 MeV
Status Code	Active Code
Global Days	XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
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	9 - 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	Procedure or Service, Not Discounted when Multiple
Type of Service (TOS)	6 - Therapeutic Radiology
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS)	P7A - Oncology - radiation therapy
MUE	Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification	211 - Therapeutic radiology