78140 Red cell sequestration
Also known as: RBC sequestration, splenic sequestration study
Red blood cell sequestration study performed to detect abnormal red cell pooling and determine site of hemolysis.
In Plain Language
red blood cell pooling test; spleen damage study
Clinical Context
Identifies sites of abnormal red cell destruction, particularly splenic sequestration in hemolytic anemia. Guides therapeutic decisions regarding splenectomy.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.59 |
| Total RVU | 0.59 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
Radiology codes require a written order, clinical indication, and a formal interpretation report. The professional component (modifier -26) and technical component (modifier -TC) may be billed separately.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 0.59, this code ranks in the 38th percentile among Radiology codes — 1.4x below the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 78140?
CPT 78140 (Red cell sequestration) is a Radiology code. Red blood cell sequestration study performed to detect abnormal red cell pooling and determine site of hemolysis.
Who uses CPT code 78140?
CPT 78140 is used by Nuclear Medicine, Hematology, Radiology. Identifies sites of abnormal red cell destruction, particularly splenic sequestration in hemolytic anemia. Guides therapeutic decisions regarding splenectomy.
When is CPT 78140 used?
Identifies sites of abnormal red cell destruction, particularly splenic sequestration in hemolytic anemia. Guides therapeutic decisions regarding splenectomy.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.