78608 Brain imaging (pet)
Also known as: brain PET imaging
Brain imaging using Positron Emission Tomography (PET) performed for metabolic assessment.
In Plain Language
brain PET scan
Clinical Context
Evaluates cerebral glucose metabolism for dementia, epilepsy, and brain tumors.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.50 |
| Total RVU | 1.50 |
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 1.50, this code ranks in the 78th percentile among Radiology codes — 1.9x the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 78608?
CPT 78608 (Brain imaging (pet)) is a Radiology code. Brain imaging using Positron Emission Tomography (PET) performed for metabolic assessment.
Who uses CPT code 78608?
CPT 78608 is used by Nuclear Medicine, Neurology, Radiology. Evaluates cerebral glucose metabolism for dementia, epilepsy, and brain tumors.
When is CPT 78608 used?
Evaluates cerebral glucose metabolism for dementia, epilepsy, and brain tumors.
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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.