How To Use CPT Code 0235T

CPT 0235T describes a procedure known as transluminal peripheral atherectomy, which is used to restore blood supply in a narrowed or blocked visceral artery (except renal artery). This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples.

1. What is CPT Code 0235T?

CPT 0235T is a code that represents a specific procedure called transluminal peripheral atherectomy. This procedure is performed to restore blood flow in a visceral artery (excluding the renal artery) that has become narrowed or blocked due to the buildup of plaque. The provider uses either an open or percutaneous approach to remove the plaque and improve blood circulation.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 0235T is: ‘Transluminal peripheral atherectomy, open or percutaneous, including radiological supervision and interpretation; visceral artery (except renal), each vessel.’

3. Procedure

1. To perform the transluminal peripheral atherectomy procedure, the provider begins by preparing the patient and administering anesthesia.
2. Next, the provider makes an incision in the femoral artery or punctures the skin directly over the suspected area of stenosis in the visceral artery.
3. Under image guidance, typically fluoroscopy, the provider inserts a guide wire followed by a catheter with a shaving device, such as a burr or blade, at the end.
4. The provider then dissects or shaves the arterial plaque from the vessel walls using the burr or blade on the end of the catheter.
5. After removing the excised plaque from the artery, the provider removes all instruments, controls any bleeding, and closes the incisions in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT code 0235T is used when a patient has a narrowed or blocked visceral artery (excluding the renal artery) that requires restoration of blood flow. The procedure is typically performed by a provider who specializes in vascular interventions and has the necessary expertise to perform the atherectomy. It is important to note that CPT code 0235T specifically applies to the visceral arteries and should not be used for other arterial locations.

5. When to use CPT code 0235T

CPT code 0235T should be used when a provider performs a transluminal peripheral atherectomy on a visceral artery (except renal artery) to restore blood flow. It is important to ensure that the procedure is performed according to the specific guidelines outlined in the code description. If the procedure is performed on a different artery or involves additional services, a different CPT code should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 0235T, the provider must include the following documentation:

• Diagnosis indicating the narrowed or blocked visceral artery
• Details of the procedure performed, including the approach (open or percutaneous), the specific artery treated, and the use of radiological supervision and interpretation
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional relevant information, such as complications or additional procedures performed
• Provider’s signature

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 0235T, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. The provider should also be aware of any additional guidelines or requirements set by payers. It is important to note that CPT code 0235T should not be reported with other codes unless specific circumstances warrant it. It is recommended to review the official coding guidelines and consult with payers for any specific billing requirements or modifiers that may be necessary.

8. Historical information

CPT code 0235T was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2011. It is important to stay updated on any changes or revisions to the code to ensure accurate reporting.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs a transluminal peripheral atherectomy on a patient’s mesenteric artery to restore blood flow and alleviate symptoms of intestinal ischemia.
2. Using a percutaneous approach, a provider performs a transluminal peripheral atherectomy on a patient’s hepatic artery to improve blood flow to the liver.
3. A provider performs an open transluminal peripheral atherectomy on a patient’s splenic artery to treat a narrowing caused by plaque buildup.
4. Using fluoroscopy guidance, a provider performs a transluminal peripheral atherectomy on a patient’s brachiocephalic trunk to improve blood flow to the head and neck.
5. A provider performs a transluminal peripheral atherectomy on a patient’s abdominal aorta to remove plaque and restore blood flow to the abdominal organs.
6. Using an open approach, a provider performs a transluminal peripheral atherectomy on a patient’s iliac artery to alleviate symptoms of peripheral arterial disease.
7. A provider performs a transluminal peripheral atherectomy on a patient’s celiac artery to improve blood flow to the stomach and other abdominal organs.
8. Using a percutaneous approach, a provider performs a transluminal peripheral atherectomy on a patient’s superior mesenteric artery to treat a narrowing caused by plaque.
9. A provider performs an open transluminal peripheral atherectomy on a patient’s inferior mesenteric artery to restore blood flow to the lower part of the large intestine.
10. Using fluoroscopy guidance, a provider performs a transluminal peripheral atherectomy on a patient’s hepatic artery to treat a narrowing caused by plaque buildup.