CPT® Code 0642T

Deleted

Noncontact near-infrared spectroscopy studies of flap or wound (eg, for measurement of deoxyhemoglobin, oxyhemoglobin, and ratio of tissue oxygenation [StO2]); interpretation and report only, each flap or wound

Noncontact near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is a sophisticated imaging technique utilized for the assessment of wounds and skin flap oxygen perfusion through the application of light. This method is particularly valuable in measuring the levels of deoxyhemoglobin and oxyhemoglobin, as well as calculating the ratio of tissue oxygenation, known as StO2. These measurements are critical for predicting wound healing, evaluating the viability of skin flaps, and determining the success of biologic wound matrix applications. The principle behind NIRS lies in the fact that tissue is relatively transparent to near-infrared light, which allows the technique to differentiate between oxygenated and deoxygenated blood based on how the light is absorbed and reflected. A noncontact, handheld imaging device, such as SnapshotNIR, is employed to measure the oxygenation levels within the capillary bed. This device is positioned over the area of interest, emitting six different near-infrared electromagnetic wavelengths of light. Each wavelength interacts differently with oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin molecules, resulting in varying absorption levels. The light that is not absorbed is reflected back to the device, which records this information. The proprietary software integrated into the device processes the return signal to assess the oxygen saturation levels at each pixel, ultimately generating a color-coded map that visually represents the oxygenation status alongside the clinical image. The interpretation of this data culminates in a comprehensive report detailing the healing progress or viability of the flap, as well as predicting the healing trajectory. This information is instrumental in mitigating risks associated with wound healing and enhancing patient outcomes. It is important to note that while code 0640T encompasses both the image acquisition and the interpretation and report for each flap or wound study, code 0641T pertains solely to image acquisition, whereas code 0642T is designated for the interpretation and report only.