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Code deleted, use 77799

Official Description

Interstitial radiation source application; intermediate

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 77777 refers to the procedure of interstitial radiation source application, specifically categorized as an intermediate level of complexity. This procedure involves the introduction of a radioactive substance, which is securely contained within a device, directly into the body. The primary objective of this intervention is to target and destroy cancerous cells effectively. During the procedure, the physician strategically places the radioactive substance in a range of 1 to 4 interstitial spaces, which are the areas between different organs. This targeted approach allows for localized treatment of malignancies while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. It is important to note that if the radioactive substance is placed in 5 to 10 interstitial spaces, the appropriate code to use would be 77777, while for placements in 10 or more spaces, the code 77778 should be utilized. This coding structure ensures accurate representation of the complexity and extent of the procedure performed.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure coded as CPT® 77777 is indicated for the treatment of various malignancies where localized radiation therapy is deemed necessary. The following conditions may warrant the use of this procedure:

  • Cancerous Tumors The presence of tumors that require targeted radiation therapy to destroy cancerous cells effectively.
  • Localized Disease Situations where the cancer is confined to specific areas between organs, allowing for precise treatment without affecting surrounding healthy tissue.
  • Recurrent Cancer Cases where cancer has recurred in previously treated areas, necessitating additional localized intervention.

2. Procedure

The procedure for interstitial radiation source application involves several critical steps to ensure effective treatment. The following outlines the procedural steps associated with CPT® 77777:

  • Step 1: Patient Preparation The patient is prepared for the procedure, which includes obtaining informed consent, performing necessary imaging studies to identify the exact locations for radioactive substance placement, and ensuring the patient is in a comfortable position for the intervention.
  • Step 2: Anesthesia Administration Depending on the specific case and the patient's condition, local anesthesia or sedation may be administered to minimize discomfort during the procedure.
  • Step 3: Introduction of the Radioactive Source The physician carefully introduces the radioactive substance, which is contained within a specialized device, into the predetermined interstitial spaces between the organs. This step requires precision to ensure that the substance is placed accurately to maximize its therapeutic effect on the cancerous cells.
  • Step 4: 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 to confirm that the substance is correctly positioned.
  • Step 5: Post-Procedure Care Once the procedure is completed, the patient is moved to a recovery area where they are monitored for any complications. Instructions for post-procedure care are provided, including any restrictions or follow-up appointments necessary for ongoing evaluation.

3. Post-Procedure

Following the interstitial radiation source application, patients are typically monitored for a short period to ensure there are no immediate adverse reactions. Expected recovery may vary based on individual patient factors and the extent of the procedure. Patients may experience localized discomfort or swelling at the site of the radioactive source placement, which should be managed with appropriate pain relief measures. It is essential for patients to follow any specific post-procedure instructions provided by their healthcare team, which may include activity restrictions, signs of complications to watch for, and scheduling follow-up appointments for further evaluation and monitoring of treatment effectiveness.

Short Descr APPLY INTERSTIT RADIAT INTER
Medium Descr INTERSTITIAL RADIATION SOURCE APPLIC INTERMED
Long Descr Interstitial radiation source application; intermediate
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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