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The procedure described by CPT® Code 78584 involves pulmonary perfusion imaging, which is a diagnostic test used to assess blood flow in the lungs. During this imaging process, the physician administers a radioactive substance composed of particulate matter that is intentionally designed to be too large to pass through the capillaries within the lung tissue. This characteristic allows for the visualization of blood flow patterns in the lungs. A specialized camera is employed to capture images of the radioactive particles as they accumulate in the lung areas. The accumulation of these particles is critical for identifying regions of the lungs that may not be receiving adequate blood supply, which can indicate potential health issues. In addition to the perfusion imaging, the procedure also includes a ventilation test. In this part of the test, the patient inhales a radioactive gas, specifically Xenon, and is instructed to hold their breath for as long as possible. This technique enables the physician to visualize areas of the lungs that may not be ventilated properly, providing further insight into the patient's pulmonary function. Overall, this dual approach of assessing both perfusion and ventilation is essential for diagnosing various pulmonary conditions and determining appropriate treatment strategies.
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The pulmonary perfusion imaging procedure described by CPT® Code 78584 is indicated for various clinical scenarios where assessment of lung function and blood flow is necessary. The following conditions may warrant this imaging study:
The procedure for pulmonary perfusion imaging with ventilation, as outlined in CPT® Code 78584, consists of several key steps that ensure accurate assessment of lung perfusion and ventilation. The following procedural steps are involved:
After the completion of the pulmonary perfusion imaging procedure, the patient may be monitored for a short period to ensure there are no immediate adverse reactions to the radioactive substances used. It is generally recommended that patients hydrate well to help flush the radioactive material from their system. The physician will review the imaging results and discuss any findings with the patient, which may lead to further diagnostic testing or treatment options based on the results. Patients are typically advised to resume normal activities unless otherwise directed by their healthcare provider.
| Short Descr | LUNG V/Q IMAGE SINGLE BREATH | Medium Descr | PULM PI PART VNTJ 1 BRTH | Long Descr | Pulmonary perfusion imaging, particulate, with ventilation; single breath | 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 | 208 - Radioisotope pulmonary scan |
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