2025 CPT code 19298
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Surgery - Surgical Procedures on the Integumentary System Feed
Placement of radiotherapy afterloading brachytherapy catheters (multiple tube and button type) into the breast for interstitial radioelement application following (at the time of or subsequent to) partial mastectomy, includes imaging guidance.
Modifiers may be applicable in certain situations.For example, modifier 50 would be used for bilateral procedures, 78 for unplanned return to the operating room.
Medical necessity for this procedure is based on the need for targeted radiation therapy following a partial mastectomy to treat breast cancer. The medical record should document the patient's diagnosis, treatment plan, and the rationale for using brachytherapy.
After the patient is prepared and anesthetized, the physician uses imaging guidance to place brachytherapy catheters at the site of the removed tumor.Hollow needles or tubes create channels for the catheters, which are passed through the breast and secured with external buttons. A three-dimensional visualization confirms proper placement before a sterile dressing is applied.
In simple words: This procedure involves placing multiple tube and button type catheters into the breast for radiation therapy after a partial mastectomy.The placement is guided by imaging technology, ensuring precise placement of the catheters for targeted radiation delivery. This procedure can be done at the same time as the partial mastectomy or later.
Placement of multiple tube and button type afterloading brachytherapy catheters into the breast for interstitial radioelement application following (at the time of or subsequent to) partial mastectomy. Imaging guidance is included.
Example 1: A patient undergoes a partial mastectomy for breast cancer. At the same time, the physician places multiple brachytherapy catheters for interstitial radiation therapy., A patient has a partial mastectomy. A week later, she returns to have multiple brachytherapy catheters placed for subsequent interstitial radiation therapy., A patient undergoes a partial mastectomy and placement of brachytherapy catheters. Due to complications, some catheters are removed, and new ones are placed a few days later under image guidance using 19298.
Documentation should include details about the partial mastectomy, the type and number of brachytherapy catheters placed, the use of imaging guidance, and the confirmation of catheter placement.Any complications or subsequent adjustments to the catheters should also be documented.
- Revenue Code: P1A - MAJOR PROCEDURE - BREAST
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Radiation Oncology, Surgical Oncology
- Place of Service:Ambulatory Surgical Center, Hospital- Inpatient, Hospital- Outpatient