CPT® Code 93278

Signal-averaged electrocardiography (SAECG) is a specialized diagnostic procedure that enhances the standard electrocardiogram (ECG) by capturing and analyzing the electrical activity of the heart over an extended period. During this test, the patient is positioned at rest, typically lying on an examination table, to ensure a stable environment for accurate readings. Electrodes are strategically placed on the chest, abdomen, and back to monitor the heart's electrical signals effectively. The procedure involves connecting lead wires from the ECG machine to these electrodes, allowing for the collection of multiple ECG tracings over a duration of approximately 20 minutes. This extended testing period enables the capture of several hundred cardiac cycles, significantly increasing the likelihood of identifying subtle cardiac abnormalities that may not be detectable in a standard ECG. A computer system processes the electrical signals obtained during the test, averaging them to provide a clearer picture of the heart's conduction system function. Following the completion of the SAECG, the physician meticulously reviews the recorded data and the accompanying computer analysis, ultimately delivering a comprehensive written interpretation of the findings to aid in clinical decision-making.