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Code deleted, see 78579, 78582-78598

Official Description

Pulmonary ventilation imaging, gaseous, with rebreathing and washout with or without single breath; single projection

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 78593 refers to a specific diagnostic imaging procedure known as pulmonary ventilation imaging. This procedure involves the use of a radioactive gas, specifically Xenon, which the patient inhales. The primary purpose of this imaging technique is to assess the ventilation of the lungs by visualizing areas that may not be receiving adequate airflow. During the procedure, a specialized camera captures images of the lungs while the patient inhales the gas, holds it in their lungs, and subsequently exhales it. This process allows for a detailed examination of lung function and helps identify regions of poor ventilation. It is important to note that the imaging is conducted from a single projection angle, which provides a focused view of the lung areas being assessed. If multiple angles are required for a comprehensive evaluation, the corresponding CPT® Code 78594 should be utilized, which accounts for images taken from various vantage points, including the front, back, and sides of the patient.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The pulmonary ventilation imaging procedure using CPT® Code 78593 is indicated for various clinical scenarios where assessment of lung ventilation is necessary. This imaging technique is particularly useful in the following situations:

  • Assessment of Lung Function This procedure is performed to evaluate the overall function of the lungs, especially in patients with suspected respiratory disorders.
  • Diagnosis of Pulmonary Conditions It aids in diagnosing conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and other obstructive or restrictive lung diseases.
  • Preoperative Evaluation The imaging may be indicated prior to lung surgery to assess the viability of lung tissue and to plan surgical interventions accordingly.
  • Monitoring of Lung Disease Progression It is used to monitor changes in lung ventilation over time in patients with known lung diseases.

2. Procedure

The procedure for pulmonary ventilation imaging with CPT® Code 78593 involves several key steps that ensure accurate imaging of lung ventilation. Each step is crucial for obtaining high-quality diagnostic images.

  • Step 1: Patient Preparation The patient is prepared for the procedure by explaining the process and ensuring they understand the importance of inhaling the radioactive gas. The patient may be asked to refrain from eating or drinking for a specified period before the test to minimize any potential interference with the imaging results.
  • Step 2: Inhalation of Radioactive Gas The patient inhales a small amount of radioactive Xenon gas. This gas is safe and allows for the visualization of lung ventilation. The inhalation is typically done through a mouthpiece or mask, ensuring that the patient receives the gas effectively.
  • Step 3: Imaging During Inhalation As the patient inhales the gas, the specialized camera captures images of the lungs. This initial imaging phase is critical as it shows how well the gas is distributed throughout the lung fields.
  • Step 4: Imaging During Breath-Holding After inhalation, the patient is instructed to hold their breath for a brief period. During this time, additional images are taken to assess the distribution of the gas within the lungs while it is retained.
  • Step 5: Imaging During Exhalation Finally, as the patient exhales the gas, the camera continues to capture images. This phase provides information on how effectively the gas is expelled from the lungs, which is essential for evaluating lung function.

3. Post-Procedure

After the pulmonary ventilation imaging procedure is completed, the patient may be monitored briefly to ensure there are no immediate adverse reactions to the inhaled gas. Generally, there are no significant post-procedure restrictions, and patients can resume their normal activities unless otherwise advised by the physician. The images obtained during the procedure will be analyzed by a radiologist or a qualified healthcare professional, who will interpret the results and provide a report detailing the findings related to lung ventilation. This report is crucial for guiding further clinical management and treatment decisions based on the patient's respiratory health.

Short Descr VENT IMAGE 1 PROJ GAS
Medium Descr PULM VI GASEOUS RBRTHING&WSHOT 1 PRJCJ
Long Descr Pulmonary ventilation imaging, gaseous, with rebreathing and washout with or without single breath; single projection
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
Date
Action
Notes
2012-01-01 Deleted Code deleted, see 78579, 78582-78598
2011-01-01 Changed Short description changed.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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Description
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