CPT code 78830 refers to the use of a special imaging technique to find tumors or areas of inflammation in the body. CPT 78830 represents “Radiopharmaceutical localization of tumor, inflammatory process or distribution of radiopharmaceutical agent(s) (includes vascular flow and blood pool imaging, when performed); tomographic (SPECT) with concurrently acquired computed tomography (CT) transmission scan for anatomical review, localization and determination/detection of pathology, single area (eg, head, neck, chest, pelvis) or acquisition, single day imaging.”
Procedure Explanation:
This procedure involves using a special substance that shows up on scans to locate abnormal areas, like tumors or inflammation, in a specific part of the body, such as the head, neck, chest, or pelvis. The process includes a scan that takes pictures of how the substance spreads throughout the body and where it collects. It may also include images of blood flow when needed. This technique combines a SPECT scan, which shows how the substance behaves in the body, with a CT scan, which provides a detailed picture of the body’s structure. Together, these images help doctors find and understand unusual changes in the body. The procedure focuses on a single area of the body and is completed in one day. Basic functions of the body unrelated to the images are not part of this procedure.
Common Names:
- SPECT/CT Scan
- Nuclear Medicine Tumor Scan
- Radiopharmaceutical Imaging
Relative Value Units (RVU):
The RVUs associated with this code are 1.49.
How This Procedure Appears:
- Operating Room Schedule Name: SPECT/CT Scan for Tumor Localization
- Surgical Consent Form Name: Consent for SPECT/CT Imaging
Typical Patients and Diagnoses:
This procedure is often used for patients who might have cancer or inflammatory diseases. For example, someone with a suspected thyroid tumor or a person experiencing symptoms of an inflammatory condition may undergo this scan. The scan helps in identifying the exact location and nature of the unusual growths or inflammation.
Associated ICD-10 Codes:
- C79.9: This code is used when cancer is found at an unspecified location; the scan helps in identifying where the cancer has spread in the body.
- R59.0: Refers to enlarged lymph nodes, which can be studied using this scan to understand if there is an underlying issue such as cancer.
- M35.9: Represents a systemic inflammatory condition without a specific diagnosis, where the scan can reveal areas of active inflammation.
Summary
In summary, code 78830 describes a SPECT/CT imaging procedure to locate tumors or inflammations with the help of a specialized agent. Typical ICD-10 codes associated with 78830 include C79.9 (Unspecified cancer location) and R59.0 (Enlarged lymph nodes).
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.