CPT code 78832 refers to a specialized type of imaging test used to locate diseases in the body, such as tumors or areas of inflammation, by using a radioactive substance. CPT 78832 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, minimum 2 areas (eg, pelvis and knees, chest and abdomen) or separate acquisitions (eg, lung ventilation and perfusion), single day imaging, or single area or acquisition over 2 or more days.”
Procedure Explanation:
This medical imaging procedure involves the use of a small amount of radioactive material to help doctors see what’s going on inside your body. It combines two types of scans: SPECT, which provides a 3D image, and CT, which gives detailed pictures of the body’s structures. The test is designed to examine at least two body areas, like the pelvis and knees or chest and abdomen, at the same time. Alternatively, separate scans may focus on specific functions, like lung air flow and blood flow. This can be done in one day or spread over multiple days. This procedure includes the initial blood flow imaging too but does not include any follow-up treatments or unrelated tests.
Common Names:
- SPECT/CT Fusion
- Nuclear Medicine Tumor Scan
- Radionuclide Imaging
Relative Value Units (RVU):
The RVUs associated with this code are 2.12.
How This Procedure Appears:
- Operating Room Schedule Name: Dual SPECT/CT Scan Imaging
- Surgical Consent Form Name: Radiopharmaceutical Localization and CT Scan
Typical Patients and Diagnoses:
This kind of imaging is typically used for patients who may have cancer or unexplained pain. For instance, someone who has a history of cancer might undergo this test to see if there are new areas of concern. It can also be useful for people experiencing chronic joint pain that hasn’t been explained by other tests or treatments.
Associated ICD-10 Codes:
- C79.51: Secondary malignant neoplasm of bone, representing instances where cancer has spread to the bones.
- R52: Chronic pain, a broad category for pain that persists over time or after recovery.
- M54.5: Low back pain, which may warrant investigation if persistent or unexplained.
Summary
In summary, code 78832 describes a combined SPECT/CT imaging procedure used to identify potential areas of concern such as tumors or inflammation. Typical ICD-10 codes associated with 78832 include C79.51 (cancer spreading to bone) and R52 (chronic pain).
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.