CPT® Code 93722

Deleted

1. Indications

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

• Respiratory Disorders Patients exhibiting symptoms of respiratory distress, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, or restrictive lung disease, may require this procedure to evaluate lung function.
• Preoperative Assessment Individuals undergoing surgical procedures, particularly those involving anesthesia, may need plethysmography to assess their respiratory status and ensure safe surgical outcomes.
• Monitoring of Chronic Conditions Patients with known chronic respiratory or cardiovascular conditions may undergo this procedure to monitor changes in their health status over time.

2. Procedure

The procedure for total body plethysmography involves several key steps to ensure accurate measurement and interpretation of the results. Each step is critical to the overall effectiveness of the diagnostic process.

• Preparation of the Patient The patient is first prepared for the procedure by ensuring they are in a comfortable position and are informed about the process. They may be asked to remove any clothing or accessories that could interfere with the measurement, and they will be instructed to breathe normally during the test.
• Placement in the Chamber The patient is then placed inside a specially designed plethysmography chamber. This chamber is sealed and equipped to measure changes in air pressure as the patient breathes. The environment within the chamber is controlled to ensure accurate readings.
• Measurement of Volume Changes As the patient breathes, the plethysmography system measures the changes in the volume of air in the lungs. This data is collected and analyzed to determine various respiratory parameters, such as lung capacity and airflow resistance.
• Data Interpretation After the measurements are completed, the physician interprets the data collected from the plethysmography. This interpretation involves analyzing the results in the context of the patient's clinical history and symptoms to provide a comprehensive report.

3. Post-Procedure

Following the total body plethysmography procedure, the patient may be monitored briefly to ensure they are stable and to address any immediate concerns. The physician will prepare a detailed report based on the interpretation of the plethysmography results, which will be shared with the patient and included in their medical records. This report is essential for guiding further diagnostic or therapeutic interventions. Patients may be advised to follow up with their healthcare provider to discuss the findings and any necessary next steps in their care plan.