CPT 78261
Gastric mucosa imaging
CPT 78261 at a glance
- Code
- 78261
- Code type
- CPT/HCPCS
- Short descriptor
- Gastric mucosa imaging
- Category
- ASC Ancillary
- ASC eligibility
- ASC-eligible (ancillary)
- Typical setting
- Ambulatory surgery center (POS 24) or hospital outpatient department (POS 22).
- Medicare ASC rate
- $220.34 national · 2026Q2
What is CPT code 78261?
CPT 78261 is a CPT/HCPCS procedure code. Its official short descriptor is "Gastric mucosa imaging". In the ASC context it is grouped under ASC Ancillary.
Is CPT 78261 eligible in an ambulatory surgery center (ASC)?
CPT 78261 is an ancillary service that can be provided in the ASC setting when it supports a surgical procedure.
Where is CPT 78261 typically performed?
Ambulatory surgery center (POS 24) or hospital outpatient department (POS 22).
What is the Medicare ASC payment rate for CPT 78261?
The national Medicare ASC payment rate for CPT 78261 is $220.34 (CMS ASC Payment System, 2026Q2). This is the national, unadjusted amount published by CMS; the amount an individual ambulatory surgery center is paid is adjusted for local wage index and may differ. It reflects Medicare's facility payment only and does not include the surgeon's professional fee.
Which specialties use CPT 78261?
CPT 78261 is most associated with Diagnostic Radiology.
Reference information about ASC eligibility and typical procedure setting. Codes, descriptors, and ASC-eligibility status change over time. This is a coding reference, not billing, coding, or legal advice. Always verify against current guidance and individual payer policy before scheduling or billing. CPT is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association.