Pulmonology Coding Alert

Question: When the physician performs a flow volume loop for spirometry, which code should I use?

West Virginia Subscriber

Answer: CPT offers a number of choices for reporting spirometry, but typically you should use 94375 (Respiratory flow volume loop) for flow volume loop. But you can't use that code with other spirometric codes. For instance, the National Correct Coding Initiative bundles 94375 with 94010 (Spirometry, including graphic record, total and timed vital capacity, expiratory flow rate measurement[s], with or without maximal voluntary ventilation) or 94060 (Bronchospasm evaluation: spirometry as in 94010, before and after bronchodilator [aerosol or parenteral]).