How To Use CPT Code 33895

CPT 33895 describes the endovascular stent repair of coarctation of the ascending, transverse, or descending thoracic or abdominal aorta, involving stent placement without crossing major side branches. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 33895?

CPT 33895 can be used to describe the endovascular stent repair procedure for coarctation of the ascending, transverse, or descending thoracic or abdominal aorta. This code specifically applies to cases where the stent placement does not cross any major side branches of the aorta. The procedure aims to treat the narrowing of the aorta, which is typically present at birth.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 33895 is: ‘Endovascular stent repair of coarctation of the ascending, transverse, or descending thoracic or abdominal aorta, involving stent placement; not crossing major side branches.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making an incision to access the target blood vessel and creates an opening in the vessel.
2. Using imaging guidance, the provider navigates a catheter to the heart and may insert a temporary pacemaker for pacing during stent placement.
3. The provider performs diagnostic congenital left heart catheterization to examine and assess the heart, including any congenital defects.
4. The provider then navigates to the coarctation (narrowing) in the ascending, transverse, or descending thoracic or abdominal aorta.
5. If necessary, the provider may perform balloon angioplasty to widen the target zone before or after stent deployment.
6. The provider places the stent in the aorta, ensuring that it does not cross any major side branches.
7. If needed, the provider may place additional stents for extension.
8. The provider confirms the placement of the stent and removes all instruments before closing the access site.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 33895 is applicable to patients with coarctation of the ascending, transverse, or descending thoracic or abdominal aorta. The procedure is performed when the stent placement does not cross any major side branches of the aorta. It is important to note that CPT 33895 should not be reported in conjunction with certain other codes, such as those related to balloon angioplasty within the coarctation stent treatment zone or additional atrial, ventricular, pulmonary, coronary, or bypass graft angiography in the same setting.

5. When to use CPT code 33895

CPT code 33895 should be used when the provider performs endovascular stent repair for coarctation of the ascending, transverse, or descending thoracic or abdominal aorta, and the stent placement does not cross any major side branches. It is important to review the documentation and ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 33895, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of coarctation of the ascending, transverse, or descending thoracic or abdominal aorta
• Confirmation that the stent placement did not cross any major side branches
• Details of the procedure, including the specific vessels involved and any additional stents placed
• Documentation of any additional procedures performed, such as balloon angioplasty
• Confirmation of stent placement and closure of the access site
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 33895, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria outlined in the code description. It is important to review the documentation and confirm that the stent placement does not cross any major side branches. Additionally, be aware of the specific codes that should not be reported in conjunction with CPT 33895. Consider any applicable modifiers and follow the appropriate billing guidelines for accurate reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 33895 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2022. As of the provided information, there have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs endovascular stent repair for coarctation of the ascending aorta, placing a stent without crossing any major side branches.
2. A patient undergoes endovascular stent repair for coarctation of the descending thoracic aorta, with the stent placement carefully avoiding major side branches.
3. A provider performs endovascular stent repair for coarctation of the abdominal aorta, ensuring that the stent does not cross any major side branches.
4. An individual undergoes endovascular stent repair for coarctation of the transverse thoracic aorta, with the stent placement avoiding major side branches.
5. A provider performs endovascular stent repair for coarctation of the ascending aorta, placing multiple stents without crossing any major side branches.
6. A patient undergoes endovascular stent repair for coarctation of the descending thoracic aorta, with the provider placing additional stents for extension.
7. A provider performs endovascular stent repair for coarctation of the abdominal aorta, using balloon angioplasty to widen the target zone before stent deployment.