CPT® Code 88329

The CPT® Code 88329 refers to a pathology consultation that occurs during a surgical procedure. This service is specifically requested by the surgeon and involves the examination of a tissue block to ascertain the presence or absence of disease, including malignancy. The primary goal of this consultation is to provide immediate information that can influence surgical decisions, particularly regarding the adequacy of surgical margins. A tissue block is defined as a sample of tissue that has been prepared and submitted as a single specimen for pathological examination. The process begins with a gross examination of the tissue block, which allows the pathologist to assess the overall characteristics of the specimen. Following this initial assessment, the tissue block is subjected to a process known as flash freezing, which preserves the cellular structure for further analysis. The frozen tissue is then sliced into thin sections, enabling detailed microscopic examination. During this evaluation, the pathologist is tasked with identifying any neoplasms or other diseases present, determining the extent of involvement, and assessing whether the surgical margins are free of disease. An initial verbal report is provided to the surgical team, summarizing critical findings such as the presence of neoplasm, the extent of disease involvement, and any other significant characteristics of the tissue sample. Additionally, a comprehensive written report is generated and included in the patient's medical record, ensuring that all findings are documented for future reference. It is important to note that CPT® Code 88329 is specifically for the pathology consultation during surgery without the examination of a tissue block. For the examination of the first tissue block and all frozen sections derived from it, CPT® Code 88331 should be utilized, while CPT® Code 88332 is designated for each additional tissue block with frozen sections.