CPT® Code 78185

Spleen imaging, as described by CPT® Code 78185, involves the use of a specialized imaging technique to visualize the spleen, which is an organ involved in filtering blood and supporting the immune system. This procedure can be performed with or without vascular flow studies, utilizing heat-damaged red blood cells (RBCs) that are labeled with the radioisotope technetium-99m (99m-Tc). The process begins with the collection of a blood sample, which can be obtained through venipuncture or via an intravenous line. The collected blood is treated with the radioisotope tracer and incubated in a heated water bath to facilitate the labeling of the RBCs. Once prepared, the labeled RBCs are injected back into the patient. The imaging is conducted using Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT), which allows for detailed visualization of the spleen's structure and function. This imaging technique is particularly useful for assessing the size and shape of the spleen, ruling out congenital conditions such as asplenia (absence of the spleen) or polysplenia (multiple small spleens) in pediatric patients, and monitoring adults who have undergone splenectomy due to conditions like thrombocytopenia. Additionally, the procedure can help identify and evaluate abdominal masses that may contain functioning splenic tissue. SPECT scanning typically occurs 30 to 120 minutes post-injection, capturing images from various angles, including anterior, posterior, and posterior oblique views. In cases where ectopic splenic tissue is suspected, the entire abdomen is scanned, and for patients with a history of abdominal trauma, the chest may also be included in the imaging. The resulting SPECT images can be compared with previous imaging studies such as CT or MRI to provide a comprehensive assessment. Finally, the interpreting physician generates a written report detailing the findings, including the timing of the imaging relative to the injection and specific characteristics of any identified functioning splenic tissue.