78609 Brain imaging (pet)
Also known as: brain PET imaging comprehensive, FDG brain PET
Brain imaging using Positron Emission Tomography (PET) performed for comprehensive metabolic assessment.
In Plain Language
detailed brain PET scan
Clinical Context
Comprehensive PET imaging assessing cerebral glucose metabolism for dementia differentiation and oncologic evaluation.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.46 |
| Total RVU | 1.46 |
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 1.46, this code ranks in the 77th percentile among Radiology codes — 1.8x the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 78609?
CPT 78609 (Brain imaging (pet)) is a Radiology code. Brain imaging using Positron Emission Tomography (PET) performed for comprehensive metabolic assessment.
Who uses CPT code 78609?
CPT 78609 is used by Nuclear Medicine, Neurology, Oncology. Comprehensive PET imaging assessing cerebral glucose metabolism for dementia differentiation and oncologic evaluation.
When is CPT 78609 used?
Comprehensive PET imaging assessing cerebral glucose metabolism for dementia differentiation and oncologic evaluation.
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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.