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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; multiple projections (eg, anterior, posterior, lateral views)

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 78594 involves pulmonary ventilation imaging, which is a diagnostic imaging technique used to assess the ventilation of the lungs. During this procedure, the patient inhales a radioactive gas, specifically Xenon, which allows for the visualization of lung function. The imaging is performed using a specialized camera that captures multiple projections of the lungs, including anterior, posterior, and lateral views. This technique is particularly useful for identifying areas of the lungs that may be poorly ventilated, as it provides a clear representation of how well air is distributed throughout the lung tissue. The process includes inhaling the gas, holding it in the lungs for imaging, and then exhaling, with images captured at various stages of this cycle. The comprehensive nature of this imaging technique enables healthcare providers to obtain critical information regarding pulmonary function and potential respiratory issues.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The pulmonary ventilation imaging procedure using CPT® Code 78594 is indicated for various clinical scenarios where assessment of lung ventilation is necessary. The following conditions may warrant this imaging technique:

  • Assessment of Lung Function This procedure is performed to evaluate the overall function of the lungs, particularly in patients with suspected respiratory disorders.
  • Diagnosis of Pulmonary Conditions It is utilized in the diagnosis of 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 surgical procedures involving the lungs to assess the patient's pulmonary status and risk.
  • Monitoring of Lung Disease Progression This procedure can be used to monitor changes in lung function over time in patients with known lung diseases.

2. Procedure

The procedure for pulmonary ventilation imaging with CPT® Code 78594 involves several key steps that ensure accurate imaging of lung ventilation. The following outlines the procedural steps:

  • Step 1: Patient Preparation The patient is prepared for the procedure, which may include explaining the process and ensuring that they are comfortable. It is important to inform the patient about the inhalation of radioactive gas and the imaging process.
  • Step 2: Inhalation of Radioactive Gas The patient inhales a small amount of radioactive Xenon gas. This gas is used because it allows for clear imaging of the lungs as it distributes throughout the pulmonary system.
  • Step 3: Imaging During Inhalation As the patient inhales the gas, the specialized camera captures images of the lungs. This initial imaging helps to visualize how well the gas is being distributed in the lung tissue.
  • Step 4: Holding Breath for Imaging The patient is instructed to hold their breath after inhaling the gas. During this phase, additional images are taken to assess the distribution of the gas within the lungs while it is retained.
  • Step 5: Exhalation and Further Imaging After holding the breath, the patient exhales the gas. The camera captures further images during the exhalation phase, providing a comprehensive view of how the gas is expelled from the lungs.
  • Step 6: Image Analysis Once the imaging is complete, the captured images are analyzed by a physician to identify any areas of poor ventilation and to assess overall lung function.

3. Post-Procedure

After the pulmonary ventilation imaging procedure, the patient may be monitored briefly to ensure there are no immediate adverse reactions to the inhaled radioactive gas. Generally, there are no specific post-procedure care requirements, and patients can resume normal activities unless otherwise instructed by their healthcare provider. The results of the imaging will be reviewed and interpreted by a physician, who will discuss the findings with the patient and determine any necessary follow-up actions or treatments based on the results.

Short Descr VENT IMAGE MULT PROJ GAS
Medium Descr PULM VI GASEOUS RBRTHING&WSHOT MLT PRJCJ
Long Descr Pulmonary ventilation imaging, gaseous, with rebreathing and washout with or without single breath; multiple projections (eg, anterior, posterior, lateral views)
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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Description
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