Coding Ahead
CasePilot
Medical Coding Assistant
Case2Code
Search and Code Lookup Tool
RedactPHI
HIPAA-Compliant PHI Redaction
DetectICD10CM
ICD-10-CM Code Detection
Log in Register free account
1 code page views remaining. Guest accounts are limited to 1 page view. Register free account to get 5 more views.
Log in Register free account

Official Description

Temperature gradient studies

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

Temperature gradient studies, identified by CPT® Code 93740, are diagnostic procedures utilized to assess the functionality and health of the heart and circulatory system. This evaluation is achieved through the measurement of temperature differences within the blood vessels, which can provide critical insights into vascular health. During the procedure, an intravenous catheter is carefully advanced into the specific blood vessels that require examination. This catheterization allows for the precise measurement of intravascular temperatures at the internal walls of the blood vessels. By comparing these temperature readings, healthcare professionals can identify variations that may indicate underlying circulatory issues. The results of the temperature gradient studies are compiled into a written interpretation, which details the observed temperature variations and their potential implications for the patient's cardiovascular status. This procedure is essential for diagnosing conditions that may affect blood flow and vascular integrity, thereby guiding further clinical decision-making and management strategies.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

Temperature gradient studies are indicated for various conditions and symptoms that may affect the heart and circulatory system. These indications help healthcare providers determine when this diagnostic procedure is necessary to assess vascular health.

  • Evaluation of Vascular Disorders This procedure is performed to investigate potential vascular disorders that may be affecting blood flow and circulation.
  • Assessment of Peripheral Circulation It is indicated for assessing peripheral circulation issues, which can manifest as pain, numbness, or other symptoms in the extremities.
  • Diagnosis of Ischemic Conditions Temperature gradient studies may be utilized to diagnose ischemic conditions where blood supply to tissues is compromised.

2. Procedure

The procedure for temperature gradient studies involves several critical steps to ensure accurate measurement and assessment of vascular health.

  • Step 1: Catheter Insertion An intravenous catheter is carefully inserted into the blood vessel that is to be studied. This step is crucial as it allows for direct access to the vascular system for temperature measurement.
  • Step 2: Temperature Measurement Once the catheter is in place, intravascular temperatures of the internal walls of the blood vessels are obtained. This is done using specialized equipment that accurately records temperature readings.
  • Step 3: Data Comparison The temperatures recorded from different sites within the blood vessels are compared. This comparison is essential for identifying any significant variations that may indicate underlying circulatory issues.
  • Step 4: Interpretation of Results After the temperature measurements are completed, a written interpretation of the variations in temperature of the blood vessel walls is provided. This report is critical for guiding further clinical decisions and management.

3. Post-Procedure

After the completion of temperature gradient studies, patients may be monitored for any immediate reactions to the procedure. It is important to assess the insertion site for any signs of complications, such as bleeding or infection. Patients may also receive instructions regarding activity levels and any follow-up appointments necessary to discuss the results of the study. The written interpretation of the temperature variations will be reviewed with the patient, and further diagnostic or therapeutic steps may be recommended based on the findings.

Short Descr TEMPERATURE GRADIENT STUDIES
Medium Descr TEMPRATURE GRADIENT STUDY
Long Descr Temperature gradient studies
Status Code Bundled Code
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
APC Status Indicator STV-Packaged Codes
Type of Service (TOS) 5 - Diagnostic Laboratory
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) T2D - Other tests - other
MUE 0
CCS Clinical Classification 62 - Other diagnostic cardiovascular procedures
GY Item or service statutorily excluded, does not meet the definition of any medicare benefit or, for non-medicare insurers, is not a contract benefit
GA Waiver of liability statement issued as required by payer policy, individual case
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.
XS Separate structure, a service that is distinct because it was performed on a separate organ/structure
AT Acute treatment (this modifier should be used when reporting service 98940, 98941, 98942)
GP Services delivered under an outpatient physical therapy plan of care
GX Notice of liability issued, voluntary under payer policy
Date
Action
Notes
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
Code
Description
Code
Description
Code
Description
CasePilot

Get instant expert-level medical coding assistance.

Ask about:
CPT Codes Guidelines Modifiers Crosswalks NCCI Edits Compliance Medicare Coverage
Example: "What is CPT code 99213?" or "Guidelines for E/M services"