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The procedure described by CPT® Code 78006 involves thyroid imaging with uptake, specifically focusing on a single determination of iodine absorption by the thyroid gland. In this diagnostic imaging procedure, a physician administers radioactive iodine isotopes to the patient. This introduction of radioactive material allows for the assessment of the thyroid gland's function by measuring how effectively it absorbs iodine, which is essential for the production of thyroid hormones. The physician utilizes a specialized camera to visualize the distribution and uptake of the radioactive iodine within the thyroid gland located in the patient's neck. This imaging technique is crucial for evaluating thyroid function and diagnosing various thyroid conditions. If the physician needs to assess the iodine absorption more than once, CPT® Code 78007 should be used instead, indicating multiple determinations of iodine uptake.
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The procedure is indicated for various clinical scenarios where assessment of thyroid function is necessary. The following conditions may warrant the use of this imaging technique:
The procedure for thyroid imaging with uptake involves several key steps that ensure accurate assessment of iodine absorption by the thyroid gland. The following procedural steps are typically followed:
After the procedure, the patient may be monitored for a short period to ensure there are no immediate adverse reactions to the radioactive iodine. The physician will provide specific post-procedure instructions, which may include hydration recommendations to help flush the radioactive material from the body. Patients are typically advised to avoid close contact with pregnant women and young children for a specified duration following the procedure to minimize radiation exposure. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss the results of the imaging and any further necessary evaluations or treatments based on the findings.
| Short Descr | THYROID IMAGING WITH UPTAKE | Medium Descr | THYROID IMAGING WITH UPTAKE | Long Descr | Thyroid imaging, with uptake; single determination | 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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