CPT® Code 77615

Interstitial hyperthermia therapy is a specialized medical procedure aimed at elevating the temperature of tumor cells while minimizing damage to the surrounding healthy tissue. This technique utilizes interstitially placed applicators or probes that generate heat through various methods, including microwave, radiofrequency, or ultrasound energy. The fundamental principle behind this procedure is that tumor cells exhibit a higher sensitivity to increased temperatures compared to normal cells. By raising the temperature of the tumor cells, the therapy can enhance the efficacy of concurrent treatments such as radiation and chemotherapy, and may also stimulate the immune system's components that contribute to the destruction of abnormal cells. This approach is particularly beneficial for treating tumors located deep within the body, such as those found in the lungs or abdominal organs. During the procedure, the patient is placed under anesthesia, and the applicators or probes are carefully inserted into the tumor with the assistance of imaging techniques like x-ray or ultrasound guidance. Once positioned, a heat source is introduced into the applicators or probes, allowing the targeted area to be heated to a predetermined temperature. Following the treatment session, the probes are removed. The coding for this procedure is specific, with CPT® Code 77615 designated for cases involving more than five interstitial applicators, while Code 77610 is used for procedures utilizing five or fewer applicators. This coding encompasses the management of the treatment course, physics planning, insertion of temperature sensors, and the application of heat-generating sources.