ABSTRACT
External radiotherapy using imaging technology for patient setup is often called image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT). The most important problem to solve in IGRT is organ motion. Four-dimensional radiotherapy (4DRT), in which the accuracy of localization is improved - not only in space but also in time - in comparison to 3DRT, is required in IGRT. Real-time tumor-tracking radiotherapy (RTRT) has been shown to be feasible for performing 4DRT with the aid of a fiducial marker near the tumor. Lung, liver, prostate, spinal/paraspinal, gynecological, head and neck, esophagus, and pancreas tumors are now ready for dose escalation studies using RTRT.
Subject(s)
Radiotherapy, Computer-Assisted , Humans , Image Processing, Computer-Assisted/classification , Image Processing, Computer-Assisted/methods , Japan , Neoplasms/radiotherapy , Radiotherapy, Computer-Assisted/classification , Radiotherapy, Computer-Assisted/methodsABSTRACT
New procedures and new technology often outpace the development of medical codes to report these services to the insurance payors. Although unlisted procedure codes are not the first choice for reimbursement, it is essential that services be reported with only the code that accurately describes the procedure. For new equipment and techniques, this may result in an increased need for preauthorizing, reporting an unlisted procedure code, and ensuring that complete documentation accompany the claim. Practices should educate the insurance community where necessary to ensure that everyone is working toward the same goal: the best patient care possible.
