78660 Nuclear examination of tear flow
Also known as: tear flow study, lacrimal imaging
Tear flow imaging performed to assess lacrimal gland function and tear drainage using nuclear medicine.
In Plain Language
tear duct function test; eye tear imaging
Clinical Context
Evaluates lacrimal gland function and tear drainage to diagnose dry eye syndrome and lacrimal obstruction.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.52 |
| Total RVU | 0.52 |
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 0.52, this code ranks in the 30th percentile among Radiology codes — 1.6x below the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 78660?
CPT 78660 (Nuclear examination of tear flow) is a Radiology code. Tear flow imaging performed to assess lacrimal gland function and tear drainage using nuclear medicine.
Who uses CPT code 78660?
CPT 78660 is used by Nuclear Medicine, Ophthalmology, Radiology. Evaluates lacrimal gland function and tear drainage to diagnose dry eye syndrome and lacrimal obstruction.
When is CPT 78660 used?
Evaluates lacrimal gland function and tear drainage to diagnose dry eye syndrome and lacrimal obstruction.
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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.