78580 Lung perfusion imaging
Also known as: lung perfusion scan, V/Q perfusion
Lung perfusion imaging performed using nuclear medicine to assess pulmonary blood flow distribution.
In Plain Language
lung blood flow test; blood circulation in lungs
Clinical Context
Evaluates pulmonary blood flow distribution to diagnose pulmonary embolism and other perfusion defects.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.72 |
| Total RVU | 0.72 |
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 0.72, this code ranks in the 45th percentile among Radiology codes — 1.1x below the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 78580?
CPT 78580 (Lung perfusion imaging) is a Radiology code. Lung perfusion imaging performed using nuclear medicine to assess pulmonary blood flow distribution.
Who uses CPT code 78580?
CPT 78580 is used by Nuclear Medicine, Pulmonology, Radiology. Evaluates pulmonary blood flow distribution to diagnose pulmonary embolism and other perfusion defects.
When is CPT 78580 used?
Evaluates pulmonary blood flow distribution to diagnose pulmonary embolism and other perfusion defects.
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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.