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Official Description

Radiopharmaceutical therapy, by interstitial radioactive colloid administration

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

Radiopharmaceutical therapy by interstitial radioactive colloid administration involves the precise placement of a radioisotope, which is a radioactive form of an element, into a specific area of the body to treat various diseases or conditions. This therapeutic approach utilizes a colloid solution, which is a mixture where tiny particles are dispersed throughout a liquid, allowing for the effective delivery of the radioisotope directly to the targeted tissue. The administration is performed using a syringe and needle, ensuring that the radioisotope is accurately injected into the desired location. The colloids used in this therapy can consist of various metals, such as gold-198 and silver-111, or compounds like phosphorus-32 and Technetium-99m. These substances are chosen based on their radioactive properties and their ability to deliver localized treatment, minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues while maximizing the therapeutic effect on the diseased area.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

Radiopharmaceutical therapy by interstitial radioactive colloid administration is indicated for the treatment of specific diseases or conditions that require targeted radiation therapy. The following are the explicitly provided indications for this procedure:

  • Treatment of tumors This therapy is often utilized for the management of certain types of tumors, where localized radiation can effectively target and destroy cancerous cells.
  • Management of hyperthyroidism In cases of hyperthyroidism, this therapy can help in reducing the overactivity of the thyroid gland by delivering radioactive isotopes that inhibit thyroid function.
  • Palliative care It may also be indicated for palliative treatment, providing relief from symptoms associated with advanced cancer or other serious conditions.

2. Procedure

The procedure for radiopharmaceutical therapy by interstitial radioactive colloid administration involves several critical steps to ensure effective treatment. Each step is designed to facilitate the safe and accurate delivery of the radioactive colloid to the targeted area.

  • Step 1: Preparation of the patient The patient is prepared for the procedure, which may include obtaining informed consent, reviewing medical history, and conducting any necessary imaging studies to identify the precise location for the administration of the radioisotope.
  • Step 2: Preparation of the radiopharmaceutical The radiopharmaceutical, which consists of the selected radioisotope suspended in a colloid solution, is prepared in a sterile environment. This preparation ensures that the solution is safe for administration and that the correct dosage is achieved.
  • Step 3: Administration of the colloid Using a syringe and needle, the healthcare provider carefully injects the colloid solution containing the radioisotope into the targeted tissue. This step requires precision to ensure that the radioactive material is delivered accurately to the intended site.
  • Step 4: Monitoring After the administration, the patient is monitored for any immediate reactions or side effects. This monitoring is crucial to ensure the patient's safety and to assess the initial effectiveness of the treatment.

3. Post-Procedure

Following the procedure, patients may require specific post-procedure care to ensure optimal recovery and effectiveness of the treatment. Patients are typically monitored for any adverse reactions to the radiopharmaceutical. Additionally, they may receive instructions regarding precautions to minimize radiation exposure to others, such as maintaining a safe distance from pregnant women and young children for a specified period. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to evaluate the treatment's effectiveness and to monitor the patient's overall health and recovery.

Short Descr NUCLR RX INTERSTIT COLLOID
Medium Descr RP THERAPY INTERSTITIAL RADIOACTIVE COLLOID ADMN
Long Descr Radiopharmaceutical therapy, by interstitial radioactive colloid administration
Status Code Carriers Price the Code
Global Days XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 1 - Diagnostic Tests for Radiology Services
Multiple Procedures (51) 0 - No payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Procedure or Service, Not Discounted when Multiple
ASC Payment Indicator Radiology service paid separately when provided integral to a surgical procedure on ASC list; payment based on OPPS relative payment weight.
Type of Service (TOS) 6 - Therapeutic Radiology
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P7A - Oncology - radiation therapy
MUE 1
CCS Clinical Classification 211 - Therapeutic radiology
26 Professional component: certain procedures are a combination of a physician or other qualified health care professional component and a technical component. when the physician or other qualified health care professional component is reported separately, the service may be identified by adding modifier 26 to the usual procedure number.
GC This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician
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Action
Notes
2011-01-01 Changed Short description changed.
2005-01-01 Changed Code description changed.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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