CPT® Code 94610

Official Description

Intrapulmonary surfactant administration by a physician or other qualified health care professional through endotracheal tube

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 94610 refers to the procedure of intrapulmonary surfactant administration, which is performed by a physician or other qualified health care professional. This procedure involves the delivery of surfactant directly into the lungs through an endotracheal tube. Surfactant is a substance that plays a critical role in reducing the surface tension within the pulmonary alveoli, which are the tiny air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs. By lowering this surface tension, surfactant helps to prevent the alveoli from collapsing, thereby facilitating easier breathing and improving overall lung function. This procedure is particularly vital for premature neonates, who often suffer from a deficiency of surfactant due to their underdeveloped lungs. Administering surfactant can significantly enhance the survival rates of these infants and decrease the risk of developing chronic lung diseases associated with respiratory distress syndrome. During the procedure, the patient is intubated with an endotracheal tube, and a bolus of surfactant, such as Curosurf, is typically administered at a dosage of approximately 100 mg/kg, ensuring that the medication reaches the lungs effectively.

1. Indications

The procedure of intrapulmonary surfactant administration is indicated for specific conditions, particularly in neonates. The following are the primary indications for this procedure:

Premature Neonates Infants born prematurely often have underdeveloped lungs that lack sufficient surfactant, leading to respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). The administration of surfactant is crucial in these cases to improve lung function and increase survival rates.
Surfactant Deficiency Conditions characterized by a deficiency of surfactant in the lungs necessitate this procedure to prevent alveolar collapse and enhance gas exchange.

2. Procedure

The procedure for intrapulmonary surfactant administration involves several critical steps to ensure effective delivery of the surfactant to the lungs. Each step is outlined below:

Step 1: Patient Preparation The patient, typically a premature neonate, is prepared for the procedure by ensuring that they are intubated with an endotracheal tube. This step is essential as it provides a direct airway for the administration of surfactant.
Step 2: Administration of Surfactant Once the patient is intubated, a bolus of surfactant, such as Curosurf, is prepared for administration. The standard dosage is approximately 100 mg/kg, which is calculated based on the infant's weight. The surfactant is then delivered through the endotracheal tube into the lungs, allowing it to spread across the alveoli.
Step 3: Monitoring After the administration of surfactant, the patient is closely monitored for any immediate reactions or changes in respiratory status. This monitoring is crucial to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and to ensure the patient's safety.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care involves continued monitoring of the neonate's respiratory status and overall condition. Healthcare professionals will observe for improvements in lung function and any potential side effects from the surfactant administration. It is essential to provide supportive care, which may include supplemental oxygen or mechanical ventilation, depending on the infant's needs. The healthcare team will also assess the infant for any signs of complications, ensuring that the patient receives appropriate interventions if necessary. Regular follow-up assessments are important to evaluate the long-term outcomes and any potential development of chronic lung disease.

Short Descr	SURFACTANT ADMIN THRU TUBE
Medium Descr	INTRAPULMONARY SURFACTANT ADMINISTJ PHYS/QHP
Long Descr	Intrapulmonary surfactant administration by a physician or other qualified health care professional through endotracheal tube
Status Code	Active Code
Global Days	XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC)	0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51)	0 - No payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50)	0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions	09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82)	0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62)	0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66)	0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family	99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator	STV-Packaged Codes
Type of Service (TOS)	1 - Medical Care
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS)	M5D - Specialist - other
MUE	2
CCS Clinical Classification	231 - Other therapeutic procedures