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Code deleted, see 77387

Official Description

Stereoscopic X-ray guidance for localization of target volume for the delivery of radiation therapy

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 77421 refers to a specific procedure known as stereoscopic X-ray guidance, which is utilized for the precise localization of a target volume during the delivery of radiation therapy. This technique involves the use of advanced imaging technology that allows physicians to visualize moving X-ray images on a television monitor. By employing this method, healthcare professionals can accurately identify and confirm the exact location of the treatment area, ensuring that the radiation is delivered precisely to the intended site. This is crucial in radiation therapy, as accurate targeting minimizes exposure to surrounding healthy tissues and maximizes the effectiveness of the treatment on the tumor or affected area. The use of stereoscopic X-ray guidance enhances the overall safety and efficacy of radiation therapy procedures, making it an essential component in the planning and execution of cancer treatment protocols.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure associated with CPT® Code 77421 is indicated for the following conditions:

  • Target Localization This procedure is performed to accurately locate the target volume for radiation therapy, ensuring precise delivery of treatment to the affected area.

2. Procedure

The procedure for stereoscopic X-ray guidance involves several critical steps to ensure accurate localization of the target volume. Initially, the patient is positioned appropriately to allow optimal imaging access to the area requiring treatment. The physician then utilizes specialized equipment to generate stereoscopic X-ray images, which are essentially two-dimensional images taken from different angles. These images are processed and displayed on a television monitor, allowing the physician to visualize the target area in real-time. The physician carefully analyzes the moving images to confirm the exact location of the target volume, making any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan based on the visual feedback. This step is crucial as it ensures that the radiation therapy is directed precisely at the tumor or affected tissue, thereby enhancing the treatment's effectiveness while minimizing potential damage to surrounding healthy tissues.

  • Step 1: Position the patient appropriately to facilitate optimal imaging access.
  • Step 2: Generate stereoscopic X-ray images from different angles using specialized equipment.
  • Step 3: Display the processed images on a television monitor for real-time visualization.
  • Step 4: Analyze the moving images to confirm the exact location of the target volume and adjust the treatment plan as necessary.

3. Post-Procedure

After the completion of the stereoscopic X-ray guidance procedure, the physician may provide specific post-procedure care instructions to the patient. This may include monitoring for any immediate side effects or complications related to the imaging process. Patients are typically advised to follow up with their healthcare provider to discuss the results of the imaging and any subsequent steps in their radiation therapy treatment plan. Additionally, the physician may recommend scheduling further imaging or assessments as needed to ensure the ongoing accuracy of the treatment delivery.

Short Descr STEREOSCOPIC X-RAY GUIDANCE
Medium Descr STRSC X-RAY GDN LOCLZJ TARGET VOL DLVR RADJ THER
Long Descr Stereoscopic X-ray guidance for localization of target volume for the delivery of radiation therapy
Status Code Active Code
Global Days XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 1 - Diagnostic Tests for Radiology Services
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 Items and Services Packaged into APC Rates
Type of Service (TOS) 6 - Therapeutic Radiology
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) I4B - Imaging/procedure - other
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 211 - Therapeutic radiology
Date
Action
Notes
2015-01-01 Deleted Code deleted, see 77387
2006-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 2006.
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Description
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