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Code deleted, see 78300, 78305, 78306, 78315, 78800, 78801, 78802, 78803, 78830, 78831, 78832

Official Description

Radiopharmaceutical localization of inflammatory process; limited area

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 78805 involves the use of scintigraphy, a diagnostic imaging technique that utilizes a radiolabeled isotope tracer to identify and localize areas of inflammation within the body. This process is particularly useful in detecting inflammatory processes, which may be indicative of various medical conditions, including infections, autoimmune disorders, or other inflammatory diseases. The radiolabeled isotope tracer is specifically designed to bind to inflammatory cells, allowing for targeted imaging of affected areas. During the procedure, an intravenous line is established to facilitate the injection of the tracer directly into the patient's circulatory system. Alternatively, a blood sample may be taken, and the white blood cells are separated and tagged with the isotope tracer before being reintroduced into the patient. Once the tracer is administered, it circulates through the body and accumulates in areas of inflammation or infection. The patient is then positioned on an imaging table, and a gamma camera is used to scan the targeted area at predetermined intervals. The emitted radioactive energy is captured and converted into detailed images, which are subsequently interpreted by a physician. A written report summarizing the findings is provided, ensuring that the results are documented for further clinical evaluation. It is important to note that CPT® Code 78805 is specifically designated for studies involving a limited area, while CPT® Code 78806 is applicable for whole-body scans.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure associated with CPT® Code 78805 is indicated for the localization of inflammatory processes in a limited area of the body. This may include, but is not limited to, the following conditions:

  • Infection The procedure is utilized to identify localized infections that may not be easily detected through other imaging modalities.
  • Autoimmune Disorders It can assist in diagnosing conditions characterized by inflammation due to autoimmune responses.
  • Acute Inflammatory Processes The procedure is indicated for acute inflammation, helping to pinpoint the exact location and extent of the inflammatory response.
  • Chronic Inflammatory Conditions It is also used to evaluate chronic inflammatory conditions that may require further investigation.

2. Procedure

The procedure for CPT® Code 78805 involves several key steps that ensure accurate localization of the inflammatory process.

  • Step 1: Establishing an Intravenous Line An intravenous line is established to facilitate the administration of the radiolabeled isotope tracer directly into the patient's circulatory system. This step is crucial for ensuring that the tracer can circulate effectively throughout the body.
  • Step 2: Administering the Radiolabeled Isotope Tracer The radiolabeled isotope tracer is injected into the bloodstream. Alternatively, a blood sample may be drawn, and the white blood cells are separated and tagged with the isotope tracer before being reintroduced into the patient. This method allows for targeted imaging of inflammatory cells.
  • Step 3: Positioning the Patient Once the tracer has been administered, the patient is positioned on the imaging table. Proper positioning is essential to ensure that the gamma camera can accurately capture images of the area of interest.
  • Step 4: Scanning the Area The gamma camera is centered over the area to be studied, and scanning is performed at specific intervals. This step involves capturing the radioactive energy emitted from the tracer as it accumulates in areas of inflammation.
  • Step 5: Image Conversion and Interpretation The emitted radioactive energy is converted into images that represent the distribution of the tracer within the body. A physician then interprets these images and provides a written report detailing the findings of the study.

3. Post-Procedure

After the procedure, patients may be monitored for any immediate reactions to the radiolabeled isotope tracer. There are typically no specific post-procedure care requirements, but patients may be advised to drink plenty of fluids to help flush the tracer from their system. The physician will review the images obtained during the procedure and provide a comprehensive report, which may include recommendations for further evaluation or treatment based on the findings. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss the results and any necessary next steps in the patient's care.

Short Descr ABSCESS IMAGING LTD AREA
Medium Descr RP LOCLZJ INFLAMMATORY PROCESS LIMITED AREA
Long Descr Radiopharmaceutical localization of inflammatory process; limited area
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 Procedure or Service, Not Discounted when Multiple
Type of Service (TOS) 4 - Diagnostic Radiology
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) I1E - Standard imaging - nuclear medicine
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 209 - Radioisotope scan and function studies
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Notes
2019-12-31 Deleted Code deleted, see 78300, 78305, 78306, 78315, 78800, 78801, 78802, 78803, 78830, 78831, 78832
2011-01-01 Changed Short description changed.
2001-01-01 Changed Code description changed.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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