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The procedure described by CPT® Code 78588 involves pulmonary perfusion imaging, which is a diagnostic test used to evaluate the blood flow to the lungs. In this procedure, the physician administers radioactive particles that are intentionally designed to be too large to pass through the capillaries within the lungs. This characteristic is crucial as it allows for the visualization of blood flow patterns and potential blockages. A specialized imaging camera is employed to track the distribution of these particles as they accumulate in the lung tissue. The accumulation of particles provides valuable information regarding the presence of pulmonary embolism, a condition where blood clots obstruct blood flow in the lungs. Additionally, this imaging technique assesses the overall ventilation of each lung, offering insights into the functional capacity of the pulmonary system. The combination of perfusion and ventilation imaging enhances the physician's ability to diagnose and manage various pulmonary conditions effectively.
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The pulmonary perfusion imaging procedure described by CPT® Code 78588 is indicated for the evaluation of various pulmonary conditions. The following are the explicitly provided indications for this imaging technique:
The procedure for pulmonary perfusion imaging with aerosol ventilation involves several key steps that ensure accurate imaging and assessment of lung function. The following procedural steps are outlined:
After the pulmonary perfusion imaging procedure is completed, the patient may be monitored for a short period to ensure there are no immediate adverse reactions to the radioactive materials used. The physician will review the images obtained during the procedure and may discuss the findings with the patient. Depending on the results, further diagnostic tests or treatments may be recommended. Patients are typically advised to hydrate well post-procedure to help flush the radioactive material from their system. Additionally, any specific post-procedure instructions provided by the healthcare team should be followed to ensure optimal recovery and health monitoring.
| Short Descr | PERFUSION LUNG IMAGE | Medium Descr | PULM PI PART VNTJ IMG AERSL 1/MLT PRJCJ | Long Descr | Pulmonary perfusion imaging, particulate, with ventilation imaging, aerosol, 1 or multiple projections | 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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