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CPT 79445: Transarterial Radioembolization with Intra-arterial Radioactive Injection
CPT code 79445 represents a transarterial radioembolization procedure in which a liquid containing radioactive particles is injected into the artery feeding a tumor to deliver localized radiation and reduce tumor blood supply. This interventional oncology service is an important option for treating certain liver and other solid organ tumors where locoregional control is sought and systemic therapy is limited or complementary. Nationally, the code is relevant to hospital outpatient and interventional radiology practice patterns and reimbursement policy discussions.
Key payers discussed include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find an overview of clinical context for the procedure, typical sites of service, and benchmarks for coverage and coding practice. The publication also summarizes payer policy trends, common billing modifiers applicable to complex interventional procedures, and areas where clinical documentation supports medical necessity. This material is intended to inform coding staff, revenue cycle teams, and clinical leaders about the role of CPT code 79445 in treatment pathways and payer engagement.
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Billing Code Overview
CPT code 79445 describes a transarterial procedure in which a provider injects a liquid containing radioactive particles into the artery supplying blood to a tumor. The intent of the procedure is to deliver locoregional radiation while obstructing the tumor's arterial blood supply to target cancer cells.
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Service type: Interventional radiology procedure delivering intra-arterial radioembolization with embolic effect
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Typical site of service: Hospital outpatient department or specialized interventional radiology suite