CPT® Code 78266

1. Indications

The gastric emptying imaging study (CPT® Code 78266) is indicated for the evaluation of various gastrointestinal conditions. The following are the explicitly provided indications for this procedure:

• Gastroparesis - A condition characterized by delayed gastric emptying, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and bloating.
• Dyspepsia - A term used to describe discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen, often associated with eating.
• Abdominal Pain and Bloating - Symptoms that may indicate underlying gastrointestinal motility disorders.
• Chronic Diarrhea or Constipation - Persistent changes in bowel habits that may be related to motility issues.
• Idiopathic Intestinal Pseudo-Obstruction - A condition that mimics a blockage in the intestines without any physical obstruction present.
• Scleroderma - A connective tissue disease that can affect the gastrointestinal tract and motility.
• Celiac Disease - An autoimmune disorder that affects the absorption of nutrients in the small intestine.
• Malabsorption Syndrome - A condition where the body cannot absorb nutrients properly from the gastrointestinal tract.

2. Procedure

The gastric emptying imaging study (CPT® Code 78266) involves several procedural steps to ensure accurate assessment of gastrointestinal motility. The following outlines the detailed steps of the procedure:

• Step 1: Preparation of the Isotope Tracer - A radiolabeled isotope tracer is prepared and suspended in a meal that consists of solids, liquids, or both. This meal is designed to be ingested by the patient to facilitate the study of gastric emptying and transit through the GI tract.
• Step 2: Patient Ingestion - The patient is instructed to ingest the prepared meal containing the isotope tracer. For patients who are unable to eat orally, such as infants or individuals with feeding difficulties, the tracer can be administered through a nasal feeding tube or gastrostomy tube.
• Step 3: Imaging Setup - After the ingestion of the meal, the patient is positioned on an imaging table. A gamma camera is placed over the abdomen to capture the movement of the radiolabeled material through the GI tract.
• Step 4: Scanning Intervals - Scanning is performed at specific intervals following the ingestion of the meal. The gamma camera detects the radioactive energy emitted from the tracer, which is then converted into images that illustrate the transit of the material through the stomach, small bowel, and colon.
• Step 5: Interpretation of Results - Once the imaging is complete, a physician interprets the collected data and provides a written report detailing the findings of the gastric emptying study.

3. Post-Procedure

After the gastric emptying imaging study (CPT® Code 78266) is completed, there are typically no specific post-procedure care requirements, as the study is noninvasive. Patients may resume their normal activities immediately following the procedure. However, it is essential for the physician to review the results and discuss any necessary follow-up or additional testing based on the findings of the study. The written report generated by the physician will provide insights into the patient's gastrointestinal motility and any potential abnormalities that may require further evaluation or management.