How To Use CPT Code 0238T

CPT 0238T describes a specific procedure known as transluminal peripheral atherectomy, which is used to restore blood supply in a narrowed or blocked portion or branch of the iliac artery. This article will cover the official description, procedure details, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples of CPT code 0238T.

1. What is CPT Code 0238T?

CPT 0238T is a code that represents the procedure of transluminal peripheral atherectomy. This procedure is performed to remove plaque from the lining of the iliac artery, which is responsible for supplying oxygen-rich blood to the lower part of the body, including the trunk, limbs, pelvis, and groin. It involves the use of an open or percutaneous approach, along with radiological supervision and interpretation.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 0238T is: ‘Transluminal peripheral atherectomy, open or percutaneous, including radiological supervision and interpretation; iliac artery, each vessel.’

3. Procedure

1. To perform the transluminal peripheral atherectomy procedure, the healthcare provider begins by prepping and anesthetizing the patient appropriately.
2. Next, the provider makes an incision in the femoral artery or punctures the skin directly over the area of suspected stenosis in the iliac artery.
3. Under image guidance, usually 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 0238T is used for patients who have a narrowed or blocked portion or branch of the iliac artery that requires restoration of blood supply. The procedure is performed by a healthcare provider using an open or percutaneous approach. The patient must have a diagnosis of arterial stenosis in the iliac artery, and the procedure must include radiological supervision and interpretation.

5. When to use CPT code 0238T

CPT code 0238T should be used when a healthcare provider performs transluminal peripheral atherectomy on the iliac artery. This code is specific to the iliac artery and should not be used for other arteries or vessels. It is important to ensure that the procedure includes radiological supervision and interpretation, as this is a key component of the code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 0238T, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of arterial stenosis in the iliac artery
• Details of the procedure performed, including the approach (open or percutaneous)
• Documentation of radiological supervision and interpretation
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 0238T, it is important to ensure that the procedure performed matches the description of the code. The provider should use the appropriate modifier if necessary, and ensure that radiological supervision and interpretation are documented. It is also important to follow any specific guidelines or instructions provided by the payer or coding guidelines for accurate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT code 0238T was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2011. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider performs transluminal peripheral atherectomy on the iliac artery of a patient with arterial stenosis.
2. Using an open approach, a provider removes plaque from the iliac artery of a patient with a narrowed portion.
3. Under radiological supervision and interpretation, a healthcare provider performs percutaneous transluminal peripheral atherectomy on the iliac artery of a patient with blocked blood flow.
4. A provider uses a burr device to shave arterial plaque from the iliac artery of a patient with a branch stenosis.
5. Using fluoroscopy, a healthcare provider performs transluminal peripheral atherectomy on the iliac artery of a patient with a narrowed vessel.
6. A provider performs percutaneous transluminal peripheral atherectomy on the iliac artery of a patient with a blocked portion, ensuring radiological supervision and interpretation.
7. A healthcare provider removes plaque from the iliac artery of a patient with arterial stenosis using an open approach and radiological guidance.
8. Using a blade device, a provider performs transluminal peripheral atherectomy on the iliac artery of a patient with a narrowed branch.
9. A provider performs percutaneous transluminal peripheral atherectomy on the iliac artery of a patient with a blocked vessel, documenting radiological supervision and interpretation.
10. A healthcare provider uses fluoroscopy to guide the removal of arterial plaque from the iliac artery of a patient with a narrowed portion.