2025 CPT code 77790

Supervision, handling, and loading of radiation source for low dose rate brachytherapy.

Use modifier 26 for the professional component and TC for the technical component if applicable.

Modifiers 26 (Professional Component) and TC (Technical Component) can be applied when appropriate.

Medical necessity for this code must be supported by documentation demonstrating the patient's diagnosis and the appropriateness of brachytherapy as a treatment modality.

The physician is responsible for ensuring the safe handling and application of radioactive materials, minimizing exposure to patients and staff, and adhering to all safety regulations.They must precisely load the radiation source to deliver the prescribed dose while protecting surrounding healthy tissues.

IMPORTANT (Do not report 77790 in conjunction with 77778)

In simple words: This procedure involves carefully managing the radioactive materials used in radiation therapy to minimize risks to patients and the environment. The doctor oversees the process, handles the materials safely, and loads them into the equipment.

This code represents the physician's supervision, handling, and loading of the radiation source to minimize the risk of radiological accidents.It is specifically used for low dose rate brachytherapy. The provider may be responsible for receiving, tracking, and storing the radioelements, and loading the radioactive source into cartridges for use.

Example 1: A patient with cervical cancer receives low dose rate brachytherapy, and the physician supervises the placement of radioactive sources in the cervix., A patient with prostate cancer undergoes interstitial brachytherapy, and the physician loads radioactive seeds into needles for implantation into the prostate gland., A patient with breast cancer receives intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT), and the physician loads the radiation source into the applicator for delivery of a high dose to the tumor bed.

Documentation should include the type and amount of radioelement used, the method of application, the treatment time, the dose delivered, the location of the treatment site, and any complications encountered.

  • Revenue Code: P7A - ONCOLOGY - RADIATION THERAPY
  • Modifier TC rule: Modifier TC can be applied if only the technical component is being billed.
  • Specialties:Radiation Oncology
  • Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital;Outpatient Hospital; Freestanding Oncology Center
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