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78645 Csf shunt evaluation

Radiology

Also known as: shunt evaluation, CSF shunt study

Cerebrospinal fluid shunt evaluation performed to assess ventriculoperitoneal or other cerebrospinal fluid shunt function.

In Plain Language

shunt function test; drainage shunt check

Clinical Context

Evaluates ventriculoperitoneal or ventriculoatrial shunt patency and function in patients with hydrocephalus.

RVU Breakdown

Work RVU0.56
Total RVU0.56

Est. Medicare Payment

$18.70

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 0.56, this code ranks in the 34th percentile among Radiology codes — 1.4x below the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.

Specialties

Nuclear MedicineNeurosurgeryRadiology

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CPT code 78645?

CPT 78645 (Csf shunt evaluation) is a Radiology code. Cerebrospinal fluid shunt evaluation performed to assess ventriculoperitoneal or other cerebrospinal fluid shunt function.

Who uses CPT code 78645?

CPT 78645 is used by Nuclear Medicine, Neurosurgery, Radiology. Evaluates ventriculoperitoneal or ventriculoatrial shunt patency and function in patients with hydrocephalus.

When is CPT 78645 used?

Evaluates ventriculoperitoneal or ventriculoatrial shunt patency and function in patients with hydrocephalus.

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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.