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The CPT® Code 78003 refers to a specific diagnostic procedure known as thyroid uptake, which involves the assessment of the thyroid gland's ability to absorb radioactive iodine isotopes. This procedure is crucial for evaluating thyroid function and is performed under specific conditions. During the test, a physician administers radioactive iodine isotopes into the patient's body, allowing for the measurement of iodine absorption by the thyroid gland located in the neck. The primary focus of this code is on the stimulation, suppression, or discharge of the thyroid gland, excluding initial uptake studies. It is important to note that this code is applicable when the test is conducted after the patient has been injected with a hormone designed to enhance the uptake of iodine, provided that the thyroid is functioning normally. In contrast, if multiple determinations of iodine absorption are made over time, a different code, CPT® 78001, should be utilized. This distinction is essential for accurate medical coding and billing, ensuring that the procedure is documented correctly for reimbursement and compliance purposes.
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The procedure associated with CPT® Code 78003 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 78003 involves several key steps to ensure accurate assessment of thyroid uptake. The following outlines the procedural steps:
After the completion of the procedure associated with CPT® Code 78003, patients may be monitored for any immediate reactions to the radioactive iodine. It is essential to provide post-procedure care instructions, which may include hydration recommendations to help flush the radioactive material from the body. Patients are typically advised to avoid close contact with others, especially pregnant women and young children, for a specified period to minimize radiation exposure. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss the results of the uptake study and any further diagnostic or therapeutic steps that may be necessary based on the findings.
| Short Descr | THYROID SUPPRESS/STIMUL | Medium Descr | THYROID SUPPRESS/STIMUL | Long Descr | Thyroid uptake; stimulation, suppression or discharge (not including initial uptake studies) | 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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