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Official Description

Coagulation time; Lee and White

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 85345 refers to a laboratory test known as the Lee and White coagulation time test. This test is specifically designed to measure the duration it takes for a blood sample to clot, which is a critical aspect of assessing hemostasis and platelet function. The procedure involves the use of three test tubes, each containing a sample of the patient's whole blood. The coagulation time is determined by human observation, where a stopwatch is utilized to time the clot formation in each of the tubes. The average time taken for clot formation across the three tubes is calculated to provide a single coagulation time value. It is important to note that while this test can provide valuable information regarding coagulation, it is considered nonspecific and less accurate compared to more modern automated coagulation tests, such as prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT). As a result, the Lee and White test has largely been supplanted by these more precise methods in clinical practice.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The Lee and White coagulation time test is indicated for the assessment of coagulation status in various clinical scenarios. It may be performed in the following situations:

  • Assessment of Platelet Function This test is utilized to evaluate the functionality of platelets in the blood, which is essential for proper clot formation.
  • Investigation of Coagulation Disorders It can be part of the diagnostic workup for patients suspected of having bleeding disorders or other coagulation abnormalities.
  • Monitoring Anticoagulation Therapy The test may be used to monitor patients undergoing anticoagulation treatment, although it is less common due to the availability of more accurate tests.

2. Procedure

The procedure for the Lee and White coagulation time test involves several key steps to ensure accurate measurement of coagulation time. First, a healthcare professional collects a sample of the patient's whole blood, which is then divided into three separate test tubes. Each tube is prepared to allow for individual assessment of clotting time. The healthcare provider then observes the blood in each tube, using a stopwatch to time the duration from the moment the blood is placed in the tube until a clot is visibly formed. This observation is critical, as it requires careful attention to ensure that the timing is accurate. Once the clot formation is noted in each of the three tubes, the times recorded are averaged to determine the overall coagulation time for the sample. This average value is then documented for further analysis and interpretation by the healthcare provider.

3. Post-Procedure

After the completion of the Lee and White coagulation time test, there are generally no specific post-procedure care requirements for the patient, as the test is minimally invasive and involves only a blood draw. However, it is important for healthcare providers to monitor the patient for any potential adverse reactions to the blood draw, such as bruising or discomfort at the puncture site. The results of the test should be reviewed in conjunction with other clinical findings and laboratory tests to provide a comprehensive assessment of the patient's coagulation status. If the coagulation time is found to be abnormal, further testing or clinical evaluation may be warranted to determine the underlying cause and appropriate management strategies.

Short Descr COAGULATION TIME LEE & WHITE
Medium Descr COAGULATION TIME LEE AND WHITE
Long Descr Coagulation time; Lee and White
Status Code Statutory Exclusion (from MPFS, may be paid under other methodologies)
Global Days XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 9 - Not Applicable
Multiple Procedures (51) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Co-Surgeons (62) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Team Surgery (66) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
CLIA Waived (QW) No
APC Status Indicator Conditionally packaged laboratory tests
Type of Service (TOS) 5 - Diagnostic Laboratory
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) T1H - Lab tests - other (non-Medicare fee schedule)
MUE 1
CCS Clinical Classification 233 - Laboratory - Chemistry and Hematology
59 Distinct procedural service: under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was distinct or independent from other non-e/m services performed on the same day. modifier 59 is used to identify procedures/services, other than e/m services, that are not normally reported together, but are appropriate under the circumstances. documentation must support a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of injury in extensive injuries) not ordinarily encountered or performed on the same day by the same individual. however, when another already established modifier is appropriate it should be used rather than modifier 59. only if no more descriptive modifier is available, and the use of modifier 59 best explains the circumstances, should modifier 59 be used. note: modifier 59 should not be appended to an e/m service. to report a separate and distinct e/m service with a non-e/m service performed on the same date, see modifier 25.
Date
Action
Notes
2013-01-01 Changed Short Descriptor changed.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
Code
Description
Code
Description
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