78278 Acute gi blood loss imaging
Also known as: acute GI bleeding scan, tagged RBC bleeding study
Acute gastrointestinal blood loss imaging performed to detect and localize active bleeding in gastrointestinal tract.
In Plain Language
bleeding site detection test; intestinal bleeding scan
Clinical Context
Detects gastrointestinal bleeding as small as 0.5 milliliters per minute. Used when endoscopy is unsuccessful or contraindicated.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.97 |
| Total RVU | 0.97 |
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 0.97, this code ranks in the 56th percentile among Radiology codes — 1.2x the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 78278?
CPT 78278 (Acute gi blood loss imaging) is a Radiology code. Acute gastrointestinal blood loss imaging performed to detect and localize active bleeding in gastrointestinal tract.
Who uses CPT code 78278?
CPT 78278 is used by Nuclear Medicine, Gastroenterology, Surgery. Detects gastrointestinal bleeding as small as 0.5 milliliters per minute. Used when endoscopy is unsuccessful or contraindicated.
When is CPT 78278 used?
Detects gastrointestinal bleeding as small as 0.5 milliliters per minute. Used when endoscopy is unsuccessful or contraindicated.
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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.