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78708 K flow/funct image with drug

Radiology

Also known as: captopril renal scan, renal flow-function with drug

Nuclear medicine imaging of kidney to assess blood flow and function with pharmacologic agent (captopril or similar) administration to enhance diagnostic capability.

In Plain Language

kidney function test with medication; kidney scan with blood pressure medicine

Clinical Context

Evaluates for renovascular hypertension using pharmacologic stimulation; most commonly captopril renography to assess split renal function and detect renal artery stenosis.

RVU Breakdown

Work RVU1.18
Total RVU1.18

Est. Medicare Payment

$39.41

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 1.18, this code ranks in the 67th percentile among Radiology codes — 1.5x the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.

Specialties

Nuclear MedicineNephrologyHypertension Specialist

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CPT code 78708?

CPT 78708 (K flow/funct image with drug) is a Radiology code. Nuclear medicine imaging of kidney to assess blood flow and function with pharmacologic agent (captopril or similar) administration to enhance diagnostic capability.

Who uses CPT code 78708?

CPT 78708 is used by Nuclear Medicine, Nephrology, Hypertension Specialist. Evaluates for renovascular hypertension using pharmacologic stimulation; most commonly captopril renography to assess split renal function and detect renal artery stenosis.

When is CPT 78708 used?

Evaluates for renovascular hypertension using pharmacologic stimulation; most commonly captopril renography to assess split renal function and detect renal artery stenosis.

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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.