CPT® Code 49411

Placement of interstitial device(s) for radiation therapy guidance (eg, fiducial markers, dosimeter), percutaneous, intra-abdominal, intra-pelvic (except prostate), and/or retroperitoneum, single or multiple

The CPT® Code 49411 refers to the procedure involving the placement of interstitial devices for radiation therapy guidance, specifically within the intra-abdominal, intra-pelvic (excluding the prostate), and/or retroperitoneal areas. These interstitial devices include fiducial markers and dosimeters, which play a crucial role in the precise targeting of tumors during radiation therapy. Fiducial markers, often made of gold, are small seeds implanted in or around a malignant tumor to help radiation oncologists accurately direct radiation beams at the tumor while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. This precision is vital in reducing potential damage to adjacent organs and structures. Additionally, implantable dosimeters are utilized to measure the radiation dose delivered at the tumor site, ensuring that the treatment is both effective and safe. The procedure involves careful planning and imaging guidance to identify the optimal placement sites for these devices, which are then inserted using a percutaneous approach under local anesthesia. The correct positioning of the markers is verified through radiographic imaging, ensuring that they are accurately placed to facilitate effective radiation therapy.