CPT code 78491 represents a PET myocardial perfusion study used to assess blood flow to the heart and, when performed, ventricular wall motion and ejection fraction at rest or during stress (exercise- or drug-induced). This imaging modality is clinically significant for evaluating ischemia, viability, and functional cardiac parameters and is increasingly relevant as PET imaging expands in availability and clinical use. Nationally, PET myocardial perfusion contributes to diagnostic pathways for coronary artery disease and can influence downstream care decisions.

Key payers covered in the analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find an overview of the clinical role of PET myocardial perfusion, coding context for a single rest or stress study, and what typical sites of service look like. The publication outlines common billing scenarios, payer coverage considerations, and benchmarking topics relevant to utilization and documentation. Where specific payer policies or fee benchmarks are not provided, the text notes that data are not available in the input. The material is designed for national stakeholders—including billing professionals, radiology and cardiology service leaders, and policy analysts—seeking concise guidance on the purpose and billing context of CPT code 78491.