Question:
What is the appropriate CPT® code when a whole-body PET with CT attenuation and then a comprehensive CT with oral and IV contrast are performed? Two separate studies were done at one visit.
Answer:
If a hybrid scanner is used with the CT portion of the whole-body PET/CT being used for both attenuation correction/anatomic localization and as a fully diagnostic CT, then you would report the following PET/CT code plus the appropriate body area CT scan.
| 78816 | Positron emission tomography (PET) with concurrently acquired computed tomography (CT) for attenuation correction and anatomical localization imaging; whole body |
There is no code for a whole-body CT. If a diagnostic whole-body CT is performed and documented, unlisted code 76497 (unlisted CT procedure [e.g., diagnostic, interventional]) would be reported.
CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association.
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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