CPT® Code 88375

1. Indications

Optical endomicroscopy is indicated for various clinical scenarios where detailed visualization of mucosal tissue is necessary. The following conditions may warrant the use of this procedure:

• Assessment of Mucosal Abnormalities Optical endomicroscopy is utilized to evaluate abnormal mucosal findings that may suggest neoplastic or inflammatory processes.
• Characterization of Lesions This procedure aids in the characterization of lesions observed during endoscopy, providing real-time insights into their histological features.
• Monitoring of Disease Progression Optical endomicroscopy can be employed to monitor the progression of diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or esophageal conditions.

2. Procedure

The procedure for optical endomicroscopy involves several key steps that ensure accurate imaging and evaluation of the mucosal tissue. Each step is critical for obtaining high-quality images and facilitating thorough analysis.

• Step 1: Preparation for Endoscopy The patient is prepared for the endoscopic procedure, which may include fasting and sedation as per standard protocols. The endoscope is then inserted into the appropriate anatomical location, such as the gastrointestinal tract.
• Step 2: Optical Endomicroscopy Setup Once the endoscope is in place, the optical endomicroscopy system is activated. This system utilizes laser light to magnify the tissue at a microscopic level, allowing for detailed imaging of the mucosal surface.
• Step 3: Image Acquisition During the endoscopic session, optical endomicroscopic images are captured. These images may be taken in real time, providing immediate feedback to the clinician, or they may be collected for later analysis.
• Step 4: Histological Evaluation The obtained images are submitted for histological evaluation. Each optical slice is carefully reviewed for any histological changes, which are essential for diagnosing potential pathologies.
• Step 5: Reporting After the evaluation, a detailed written report is generated, summarizing the findings from the optical endomicroscopic images. This report includes descriptions of any histological changes observed during the analysis.

3. Post-Procedure

After the optical endomicroscopy procedure, patients may experience standard post-endoscopic care, which includes monitoring for any immediate complications related to the endoscopy itself. The clinician will review the findings from the optical endomicroscopic images and discuss the results with the patient. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss the histological evaluation results and any further management or treatment options based on the findings. It is important for healthcare providers to ensure that patients understand the implications of the report and any necessary next steps in their care.