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The CPT® Code 78001 refers to a diagnostic procedure known as thyroid uptake, specifically involving multiple determinations. This procedure is utilized to assess the functionality of the thyroid gland by measuring the absorption of radioactive iodine isotopes. During the test, a physician administers a radioactive iodine isotope into the patient's body, which is then absorbed by the thyroid gland located in the neck. The primary purpose of this procedure is to evaluate how effectively the thyroid gland is taking up iodine, which is crucial for the production of thyroid hormones. By making multiple determinations, the physician can gather comprehensive data on the rate of iodine absorption over a specified period. This information is vital for diagnosing various thyroid conditions, including hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. It is important to note that if the test is conducted after the administration of a hormone intended to enhance iodine uptake, a different code, CPT® 78003, should be used instead. This distinction is essential for accurate medical coding and billing practices.
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The procedure associated with CPT® Code 78001 is indicated for various clinical scenarios where assessment of thyroid function is necessary. The following conditions may warrant the use of this procedure:
The procedure for CPT® Code 78001 involves several key steps to ensure accurate measurement of thyroid iodine uptake. The following outlines the procedural steps:
After the completion of the thyroid uptake procedure coded under CPT® 78001, the patient may be monitored for any immediate reactions to the radioactive iodine. It is generally advised that patients hydrate adequately to help flush the radioactive material from their system. The physician will review the results of the iodine uptake measurements and discuss any necessary follow-up actions or treatments based on the findings. Patients may also be informed about any precautions to take following the procedure, particularly regarding exposure to others, especially vulnerable populations such as pregnant women and young children.
| Short Descr | THYROID MULTIPLE UPTAKES | Medium Descr | THYROID UPTAKE MULTIPLE DETERMINATIONS | Long Descr | Thyroid uptake; multiple determinations | 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 | 09 - 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 | Discontinued Code | Type of Service (TOS) | 4 - Diagnostic Radiology | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | none | MUE | Not applicable/unspecified. | CCS Clinical Classification | 209 - Radioisotope scan and function studies |
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