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CPT®
77776

CPT® Code 77776
Deleted

Code deleted, use 77799

Official Description

Interstitial radiation source application; simple

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 77776 involves the application of interstitial radiation sources, which are radioactive substances used in the treatment of cancer. In this procedure, a physician introduces a radioactive material, securely contained within a device, directly into the body. The primary goal of this intervention is to target and destroy cancerous cells effectively. The placement of the radioactive substance is critical, as it is strategically inserted into 1 to 4 specific spaces located between various organs. This localized approach allows for a concentrated dose of radiation to be delivered directly to the tumor site while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. For cases where the radioactive substance is placed in a greater number of spaces—specifically 5 to 10 or 10 or more—different CPT codes (77777 and 77778, respectively) are utilized to accurately reflect the extent of the procedure performed. This coding distinction is essential for proper billing and documentation in medical coding practices.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The interstitial radiation source application, as described by CPT® Code 77776, is indicated for the treatment of various types of cancer where localized radiation therapy is deemed appropriate. The following conditions may warrant this procedure:

  • Cancerous Tumors The procedure is primarily performed to target and treat malignant tumors that are accessible for interstitial radiation therapy.
  • Localized Disease It is indicated for patients with localized disease where the cancer has not spread extensively, allowing for effective treatment through localized radiation.
  • Specific Organ Involvement The procedure may be indicated when tumors are located in proximity to critical organs, necessitating careful placement of the radioactive source to maximize treatment efficacy while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.

2. Procedure

The interstitial radiation source application procedure involves several critical steps to ensure the effective delivery of radiation to the targeted area. The following procedural steps outline the process:

  • Step 1: Patient Preparation The patient is prepared for the procedure, which may include obtaining informed consent, performing necessary imaging studies to identify the tumor location, and ensuring that the patient is in a suitable position for the intervention.
  • Step 2: Anesthesia Administration Local anesthesia or sedation may be administered to ensure the patient's comfort during the procedure. This step is crucial for minimizing discomfort as the physician prepares to introduce the radioactive source.
  • Step 3: Insertion of Containment Device The physician carefully inserts a containment device that holds the radioactive substance into the designated spaces between the organs. This step requires precision to ensure that the radioactive material is placed accurately in relation to the tumor.
  • Step 4: Placement of Radioactive Substance The radioactive substance is then introduced into the containment device. The physician ensures that the substance is securely placed within the specified spaces, which can range from 1 to 4, depending on the complexity of the case.
  • Step 5: Monitoring and Assessment After the placement of the radioactive source, the physician monitors the patient for any immediate reactions and assesses the placement through imaging techniques if necessary. This step is vital to confirm that the procedure has been performed correctly.

3. Post-Procedure

Following the interstitial radiation source application, patients may require specific post-procedure care to ensure optimal recovery and monitor for any potential complications. Patients are typically observed for a short period to assess their response to the procedure. Instructions regarding activity restrictions, wound care, and signs of complications are provided. Patients may also be advised on follow-up appointments to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment and to monitor for any side effects associated with the radiation therapy. It is essential for healthcare providers to communicate clearly with patients about what to expect during the recovery phase and any necessary lifestyle adjustments.
Short Descr APPLY INTERSTIT RADIAT SIMPL
Medium Descr INTERSTITIAL RADIATION SOURCE APPLIC SIMPLE
Long Descr Interstitial radiation source application; simple
Status Code Active Code
Global Days 090 - Major Surgery
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 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 2 - Co-surgeons permitted and no documentation required if the two- specialty requirement is met.
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
Date
Action
Notes
2016-01-01 Deleted Code deleted, use 77799
2001-01-01 Changed Code description changed.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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