CPT® Code 88241

Official Description

Thawing and expansion of frozen cells, each aliquot

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 88241 involves the thawing and expansion of frozen cells, which is a critical step in the process of cryopreservation. Cryopreservation is a technique used to preserve cells, tissues, or any biological constructs by cooling them to sub-zero temperatures. This process allows for the long-term storage of biological materials without significant damage. In this procedure, a sample that has been previously frozen is carefully thawed to ensure the viability of the cells. The thawing process typically involves placing the cryovial containing the frozen cells in a controlled environment, such as a 37°C water bath, to gradually raise the temperature. This is done while gently rotating the vial to ensure even warming. Once the sample is thawed, it is essential to maintain a sterile environment to prevent contamination. This is achieved by working under a laminar flow hood, where the exterior of the cryovial is disinfected before it is opened. After disinfection, a warmed growth medium is added to the cell culture in a controlled manner, often by droplet, to facilitate the rehydration of the cells. The vial is then centrifuged to suspend the cells properly, allowing for the separation of the cell pellet from the supernatant. The supernatant, which contains any residual cryoprotectants or other substances, is carefully decanted to avoid disturbing the cell pellet. Finally, the viable cells are re-suspended in the growth medium and transferred to an appropriate culture vessel or environment, where they can continue to grow and expand. This procedure is vital for various applications in research, clinical settings, and regenerative medicine, where the viability and functionality of cells are paramount.

1. Indications

The procedure associated with CPT® Code 88241 is indicated for the following:

Cell Preservation The thawing and expansion of frozen cells is performed to recover and utilize cells that have been cryopreserved for future applications.
Research Purposes This procedure is often utilized in laboratory research settings where the viability of previously frozen cells is necessary for experiments or studies.
Clinical Applications It is indicated for use in clinical settings, such as in stem cell therapy or regenerative medicine, where expanded cells are required for patient treatment.

2. Procedure

The procedure for thawing and expanding frozen cells involves several critical steps to ensure the viability and functionality of the cells.

Step 1: Thawing the Cryovial The process begins with the removal of the cryovial containing the frozen cells from the freezer or liquid nitrogen tank. The vial is then placed in a 37°C water bath, where it is gently rotated to facilitate even thawing. This controlled warming is essential to prevent thermal shock to the cells.
Step 2: Disinfection Once the cells are thawed, the next step is to maintain sterility. The exterior of the cryovial is disinfected while working under a laminar flow hood, which provides a sterile environment. This step is crucial to prevent contamination during the opening of the vial.
Step 3: Opening the Cryovial After disinfection, the cryovial is carefully opened to access the thawed cells. This must be done with caution to avoid introducing any contaminants.
Step 4: Adding Growth Medium Warmed growth medium is then added to the cell culture in a droplet manner. This gradual addition helps to rehydrate the cells without causing damage.
Step 5: Centrifugation Following the addition of the growth medium, the vial is centrifuged. This step is performed to suspend the cells properly, allowing for the separation of the cell pellet from the supernatant.
Step 6: Decanting the Supernatant The supernatant, which contains any residual cryoprotectants or other substances, is carefully decanted. This is done without disturbing the cell pellet to ensure that the viable cells remain intact.
Step 7: Resuspending Cells Finally, the rescued cells are re-suspended in the growth medium. This step is critical for preparing the cells for transfer to an appropriate culture vessel or environment, where they can continue to grow and expand.

3. Post-Procedure

After the procedure, it is essential to monitor the re-suspended cells for viability and growth. The cells should be placed in a suitable culture environment that supports their expansion. Regular assessments may be necessary to evaluate cell health and proliferation. Additionally, proper documentation of the procedure and the condition of the cells post-thawing is crucial for compliance and future reference. Any adverse reactions or unexpected outcomes should be recorded and addressed promptly to ensure the integrity of the cell culture.

Short Descr	FROZEN CELL PREPARATION
Medium Descr	THAWING&EXPANSION FROZEN CELLS EACH ALIQUOT
Long Descr	Thawing and expansion of frozen cells, each aliquot
Status Code	Statutory Exclusion (from MPFS, may be paid under other methodologies)
Global Days	XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC)	9 - Not Applicable
Multiple Procedures (51)	9 - Concept does not apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50)	9 - Concept does not apply.
Physician Supervisions	09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82)	9 - Concept does not apply.
Co-Surgeons (62)	9 - Concept does not apply.
Team Surgery (66)	9 - Concept does not apply.
Diagnostic Imaging Family	99 - Concept Does Not Apply
CLIA Waived (QW)	No
APC Status Indicator	Conditionally packaged laboratory tests
Type of Service (TOS)	5 - Diagnostic Laboratory
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS)	T1H - Lab tests - other (non-Medicare fee schedule)
MUE	3
CCS Clinical Classification	235 - Other Laboratory

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.
GA	Waiver of liability statement issued as required by payer policy, individual case