How To Use CPT Code 0524T

CPT 0524T describes the endovenous catheter directed chemical ablation with balloon isolation of an incompetent extremity vein, whether performed through an open or percutaneous approach. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples of CPT code 0524T.

1. What is CPT Code 0524T?

CPT 0524T can be used to describe a procedure in which a provider inserts a catheter into a varicose vein after isolating the area to be treated with a balloon. The provider then uses a liquid or foam chemical to ablate the varicose portion of the vein under imaging guidance. This code includes all vascular access, catheter manipulation, diagnostic imaging, imaging guidance, and monitoring necessary for the procedure.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 0524T is: ‘Endovenous catheter directed chemical ablation with balloon isolation of incompetent extremity vein, open or percutaneous, including all vascular access, catheter manipulation, diagnostic imaging, imaging guidance, and monitoring.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient and either makes an open incision into the varicose vein or inserts a catheter sheath percutaneously through the skin and into the vein.
2. Under imaging guidance, the provider advances the catheter sheath to the area of the vein to be treated.
3. A guidewire is inserted over which a balloon catheter is advanced beyond the treatment area.
4. The guidewire is then withdrawn, and the balloon is expanded to isolate the competent portion of the vein from the varicose portion.
5. The provider delivers a liquid or foam chemical through the catheter to destroy the varicose portion of the vein.
6. The catheter is then withdrawn, and if an open incision was made, it is closed in the vein and skin. For a percutaneous approach, pressure may be applied or a small incision in the skin may be made.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 0524T is performed on patients with varicose veins that require treatment. The procedure is performed by a provider who inserts a catheter into the vein and uses a liquid or foam chemical to ablate the varicose portion. The procedure may be performed through an open incision or a percutaneous approach. Imaging guidance is used throughout the procedure to ensure accurate placement of the catheter and balloon.

5. When to use CPT code 0524T

CPT code 0524T should be used when a provider performs endovenous catheter directed chemical ablation with balloon isolation of an incompetent extremity vein. This code should be used for both open and percutaneous approaches. It is important to note that no part of this procedure may be reported separately, as all necessary components are included in CPT code 0524T.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 0524T, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for the procedure
• Details of the procedure performed, including the approach (open or percutaneous)
• Imaging guidance used during the procedure
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Any complications or additional interventions performed
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 0524T, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria described in the official description. It is important to note that no part of this procedure may be reported separately. Additionally, be aware of any specific guidelines or requirements from the payer regarding documentation or reporting of this code.

8. Historical information

CPT code 0524T was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2019. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs endovenous catheter directed chemical ablation with balloon isolation of an incompetent extremity vein using a percutaneous approach.
2. A patient with varicose veins undergoes endovenous catheter directed chemical ablation with balloon isolation of an incompetent extremity vein using an open incision.
3. A provider uses imaging guidance to accurately place the catheter and balloon during endovenous catheter directed chemical ablation with balloon isolation of an incompetent extremity vein.
4. An incompetent extremity vein is successfully ablated using a liquid chemical during endovenous catheter directed chemical ablation with balloon isolation.
5. A provider performs endovenous catheter directed chemical ablation with balloon isolation of an incompetent extremity vein, including all necessary vascular access and catheter manipulation.
6. During the procedure, the provider isolates the competent portion of the vein from the varicose portion using a balloon.
7. A patient undergoes endovenous catheter directed chemical ablation with balloon isolation of an incompetent extremity vein to treat their varicose veins.
8. The provider performs endovenous catheter directed chemical ablation with balloon isolation of an incompetent extremity vein under imaging guidance to ensure accurate placement.
9. During the procedure, the provider uses a foam chemical to ablate the varicose portion of the vein.
10. A patient with varicose veins undergoes endovenous catheter directed chemical ablation with balloon isolation of an incompetent extremity vein using a percutaneous approach.