Question:
We have a new facility that performs a two-day thallium viability scan. It is assigning codes 78451 and 78452 for this exam. Is this correct?
Answer:
Not exactly. This would be reported either as 78452 or 78454 and whichever code is used, it would be billed only once. The choice of codes reported depends on whether single-photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT) is performed (78452) or not (78454). These codes are multiple exam codes and frequently take place over multiple days. If multiple studies such as stress and rest, or rest and redistribution are performed, then the most appropriate code is reported once for the entire process. You do not report separate codes for each day.
| 78452 | Myocardial perfusion imaging, tomographic (SPECT) (including attenuation correction,qualitative or quantitative wall motion, ejection fraction by first pass or gated technique, additional quantification, when performed); multiple studies, at rest and/or stress (exercise or pharmacologic) and/or redistribution and/or rest reinjection |
| 78454 | Myocardial perfusion imaging, planar (including qualitative or quantitative wall motion, ejection fraction by first pass or gated technique, additional quantification, when performed); multiple studies, at rest and/or stress (exercise or pharmacologic) and/or redistribution and/or rest reinjections |
CPT® copyright 2024 American Medical Association (AMA). All rights reserved.
Fee schedules, relative value units, conversion factors and/or related components are not assigned by the AMA, are not part of CPT, and the AMA is not recommending their use. The AMA does not directly or indirectly practice medicine or dispense medical services. The AMA assumes no liability for data contained or not contained herein.
CPT is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association.
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