CPT® Code 78230

Salivary gland imaging, specifically referred to as scintigraphy imaging of the salivary glands, is a diagnostic procedure utilized to evaluate the function of the salivary glands, assess the patency of the ducts, and characterize any tumors present within these glands. The salivary glands, which include the parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands, are exocrine glands located in the oral cavity and play a crucial role in the secretion of saliva. Saliva is essential for food digestion and maintaining oral hygiene. The parotid glands are situated anterior and inferior to the ears and are responsible for secreting saliva into the mouth through the Stensen ducts. The submandibular glands are located on the floor of the mouth, releasing saliva via the Warthin ducts, while the sublingual glands, also found on the floor of the mouth and lateral to the tongue, secrete saliva through both the Warthin and sublingual ducts. During the scintigraphy procedure, an intravenous line is established, and a radiolabeled isotope tracer is injected into the patient's circulatory system. Following a designated waiting period, the patient is positioned on an imaging table with a gamma camera placed over the anterior head and neck area. Scanning is conducted at specific intervals, capturing the radioactive energy emitted from the salivary glands, which is then converted into diagnostic images. The results of the scintigraphy are interpreted by the physician, who subsequently provides a detailed written report of the findings. This procedure is coded as CPT® Code 78230 for limited imaging, while CPT® Code 78231 is designated for instances where serial images are obtained.