CPT® Code 93720

Deleted

1. Indications

The procedure of total body plethysmography is indicated for a variety of clinical scenarios where detailed assessment of respiratory function is necessary. It is particularly useful in the following situations:

• Assessment of Respiratory Disorders This procedure is often performed to evaluate patients with known or suspected respiratory conditions, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or restrictive lung disease.
• Preoperative Evaluation Total body plethysmography may be indicated as part of the preoperative assessment for patients undergoing thoracic surgery to ensure adequate pulmonary function.
• Monitoring Disease Progression It is also utilized to monitor the progression of lung diseases over time, helping to inform treatment decisions and adjustments.
• Evaluation of Symptoms Patients presenting with unexplained respiratory symptoms, such as shortness of breath or wheezing, may undergo this procedure to determine the underlying cause.

2. Procedure

The total body plethysmography procedure involves several key steps to ensure accurate measurement and interpretation of respiratory function. The following outlines the procedural steps:

• Step 1: Patient Preparation The patient is instructed to remove any clothing or accessories that may interfere with the test, such as jewelry or tight-fitting garments. They are then asked to sit comfortably in the plethysmography chamber, which is designed to be airtight.
• Step 2: Calibration of Equipment Before the test begins, the plethysmography equipment is calibrated to ensure accurate measurements. This may involve checking the chamber's pressure and volume settings.
• Step 3: Measurement of Body Volume Once the equipment is calibrated, the patient is asked to breathe normally while the chamber measures changes in body volume. The patient may also be instructed to perform specific breathing maneuvers, such as deep inhalation and exhalation, to gather comprehensive data.
• Step 4: Data Collection Throughout the procedure, data is collected regarding the patient's lung volumes, airway resistance, and other respiratory parameters. This data is crucial for the subsequent interpretation.
• Step 5: Interpretation and Reporting After the measurements are completed, a physician reviews the collected data, interprets the results, and generates a detailed report that outlines the findings and any clinical implications.

3. Post-Procedure

After the total body plethysmography procedure, patients are typically monitored for a short period to ensure they are stable and to address any immediate concerns. There are generally no specific post-procedure restrictions, and patients can resume their normal activities unless otherwise advised by their physician. The results of the test are usually discussed with the patient during a follow-up appointment, where the physician will explain the findings and any necessary next steps in management or treatment based on the results.