CPT® Code 93721

Deleted

1. Indications

The procedure of total body plethysmography is indicated for various clinical scenarios where assessment of lung function and respiratory mechanics is necessary. The following conditions may warrant the use of this diagnostic tool:

• Respiratory Disorders Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, or other obstructive or restrictive lung diseases may require this test to evaluate their lung capacity and function.
• Preoperative Assessment Individuals undergoing surgery, particularly those with known respiratory issues, may be assessed using this procedure to ensure they can tolerate anesthesia and the surgical process.
• Monitoring Treatment Efficacy Patients receiving treatment for respiratory conditions may undergo total body plethysmography to monitor the effectiveness of their therapy and make necessary adjustments.
• Research Purposes This procedure may also be utilized in clinical research settings to gather data on lung function in various populations or to study the effects of specific interventions.

2. Procedure

The total body plethysmography procedure involves several key steps to ensure accurate measurement of body volume changes. 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 guided to the plethysmography chamber, which is designed to be airtight to ensure precise measurements.
• Step 2: Positioning Once inside the chamber, the patient is positioned comfortably, typically seated, and is asked to remain still during the test. Proper positioning is crucial to obtain reliable data.
• Step 3: Breathing Instructions The patient is instructed on how to breathe during the test. They may be asked to take normal breaths, deep breaths, or perform specific breathing maneuvers as directed by the technician.
• Step 4: Data Collection The plethysmography device measures the changes in pressure within the chamber as the patient breathes. This data is recorded as tracings, which reflect the volume changes in the body without any interpretation or report being generated at this stage.
• Step 5: Completion of the Test After the necessary data has been collected, the patient is allowed to exit the chamber. The technician ensures that all measurements are properly recorded for further analysis, if required.

3. Post-Procedure

After the total body plethysmography procedure, there are generally no specific post-procedure care requirements, as the test is non-invasive and does not involve any sedation or recovery time. Patients can typically resume their normal activities immediately following the test. However, it is advisable for patients to discuss any immediate concerns or symptoms with their healthcare provider. The collected data may be reviewed later by a physician or specialist for interpretation and to determine any necessary follow-up actions based on the findings.