Important: Diagnostic Orders Direct does not perform, interpret, or provide coronary plaque analysis. This article is for educational purposes only. Plaque analysis is performed through the imaging facility, radiology group, or software/vendor workflow associated with a completed CCTA dataset.
How Coronary Plaque Analysis Works
Coronary plaque analysis is not a standalone scan. It is a post-processing analysis applied to images acquired during a coronary CT angiography (CCTA). After the CCTA is completed, specialized software analyzes the coronary artery images to quantify and characterize plaque.
The analysis may include measurements of total plaque volume, breakdown by composition (calcified, non-calcified, or mixed plaque), and identification of high-risk plaque features (such as positive remodeling, low-attenuation plaque, or napkin-ring sign) that may indicate vulnerable plaque.
Plaque Analysis vs. Calcium Score
A coronary calcium score (CAC) only detects and quantifies calcified plaque. It does not show non-calcified plaque or detailed coronary anatomy. Plaque analysis, performed on a CCTA dataset, can identify both calcified and non-calcified plaque and characterize plaque composition in greater detail.
This means plaque analysis provides more information than a calcium score — but it requires a CCTA with IV contrast, which involves additional safety considerations (kidney function, contrast allergy, etc.).
What Is CPT Code 75577?
CPT code 75577 refers to CT coronary plaque analysis. This is a billing code used for the plaque analysis component performed on a completed CCTA dataset. It is separate from the CCTA itself (which has its own CPT code) and from a calcium score.
DOD does not bill for imaging services. The $40 fee covers the provider order review only. Imaging, interpretation, plaque analysis, and facility fees are separate and determined by the imaging facility and radiology group.
Who Performs Plaque Analysis?
Plaque analysis is performed by the imaging facility, radiology group, or specialized software vendor associated with the completed CCTA dataset. DOD is not affiliated with any specific plaque analysis software vendor or imaging facility unless a formal signed relationship exists.
If you are seeking plaque analysis, you typically need a provider order for a CCTA. The imaging facility determines whether plaque analysis is available and how it is performed.
Emergency Warning: If you have chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, or symptoms concerning for a heart attack or emergency, call 911 or go to the emergency room. Plaque analysis and cardiac imaging are for non-emergency, preventive, or risk-stratification purposes only.
Need a Provider Order?
If you found an imaging facility offering coronary plaque analysis and need a provider order, DOD provides a $40 virtual provider review. If medically appropriate, an order may be issued for a CCTA that may include plaque analysis, subject to facility capabilities and acceptance policies.