CPT® Code 88738

The CPT® Code 88738 refers to the quantitative measurement of hemoglobin (Hgb) using a transcutaneous method. This procedure employs a handheld device that utilizes noninvasive white light spectroscopy to assess the level of circulating hemoglobin in a patient's blood. During the process, a probe that emits white light is placed on the skin, typically on the forearm. The emitted light penetrates the skin tissue, where hemoglobin present in the blood absorbs a portion of this light. The remaining light is reflected back to the device, which then calculates the hemoglobin concentration by determining the difference between the emitted light and the reflected light. The resulting hemoglobin value is subsequently documented in the patient's medical record, providing essential information for clinical assessment and management.