CPT code 78816 refers to a special kind of imaging test that combines two technologies, PET and CT scans, to create detailed pictures of the whole body. CPT 78816 represents “Positron emission tomography (PET) with concurrently acquired computed tomography (CT) for attenuation correction and anatomical localization imaging; whole body.”
Procedure Explanation:
A PET/CT scan is a medical test that uses two different types of imaging to help doctors get a better look inside the body. The PET scan shows how the organs and tissues are functioning, while the CT scan provides detailed images of the body’s structures. By doing these scans together, doctors can pinpoint the exact location of any unusual activity or changes in the body. This combined procedure includes taking pictures of the whole body but doesn’t involve any treatment or invasive surgery.
Common Names:
- PET/CT Scan
- Whole Body PET/CT
- Body PET with CT
Relative Value Units (RVU):
The RVUs associated with this code are 2.5.
How This Procedure Appears:
- Operating Room Schedule Name: Whole Body PET/CT Scan
- Surgical Consent Form Name: PET/CT Scan for Full Body Imaging
Typical Patients and Diagnoses:
This procedure is commonly used for patients who have cancer, enabling doctors to check if cancer has spread, or to evaluate how well treatment is working. It’s also used for assessing some heart and brain conditions. For example, a patient undergoing treatment for a known cancer might have this scan to see any changes in the cancerous tissues.
Associated ICD-10 Codes:
- C50.911: Malignant neoplasm of unspecified site of right female breast
- C34.90: Malignant neoplasm of unspecified part of unspecified bronchus or lung
- C78.00: Secondary malignant neoplasm of unspecified lung
Summary
In summary, code 78816 describes a PET/CT scan that helps doctors understand what’s happening inside the whole body by combining two types of imaging. Typical ICD-10 codes associated with 78816 include C50.911 (Breast Cancer) and C34.90 (Lung Cancer).
Disclaimer
This post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. “CPT” and CPT Codes are registered trademarks of the American Medical Association. HCPCS codes are managed by Medicare and are not subject to copyright.