CPT code 78230 denotes nuclear medicine imaging of the salivary glands following intravenous injection of a radiopharmaceutical. This procedure evaluates salivary gland function and tracer kinetics and is used in diagnostic workups for suspected salivary dysfunction, obstruction, or inflammatory conditions. Nationally, the code is relevant for clinicians, radiology departments, and payers because it informs coverage, utilization patterns, and clinical pathways for head and neck imaging.

Key payers covered in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise overview of clinical indications and typical sites of service, plus benchmarks and policy context where available. The publication outlines common billing practices and payer coverage considerations for nuclear salivary gland imaging, highlights relevant coding relationships, and summarizes any notable policy updates or coverage nuances affecting reimbursement and utilization.

This summary is intended to orient clinicians, coding professionals, and policy analysts to the clinical purpose of 78230, the settings in which it is commonly performed, and the payer landscape that shapes access and billing for the procedure.