CPT® Code 78597

Quantitative differential pulmonary perfusion is a specialized nuclear imaging procedure designed to assess lung function by evaluating the circulation of blood within the lung tissue. This procedure is essential for understanding two critical components of lung function: ventilation and perfusion. Ventilation pertains to the ability of air to reach all areas of the lungs, while perfusion refers to the blood flow through the lung structures. In this context, nuclear imaging studies utilize radioactive tracers to visualize and measure these functions effectively. The procedure involves the administration of a radioactive tracer, such as technetium macro aggregated albumin (Tc99m-MAA), which is injected into the bloodstream via an intravenous catheter. As the tracer circulates, it highlights areas of the lungs and other body regions, allowing for a detailed comparison of blood flow and tracer accumulation. The quantitative aspect of this study involves measuring the amount of tracer in various lung regions, providing valuable insights into pulmonary health. Throughout the procedure, the patient is closely monitored, and the physician analyzes the obtained images to generate a comprehensive report that includes critical measurements and comparisons of radionuclide distributions, aiding in the diagnosis and management of pulmonary conditions.