How To Use CPT Code 34471

CPT 34471 describes a surgical procedure known as thrombectomy, which involves the removal of a blood clot from the subclavian vein. This article will provide an overview of CPT code 34471, including its official description, the procedure itself, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 34471?

CPT 34471 is a code used to describe a surgical procedure called thrombectomy. This procedure involves the removal of a blood clot from the subclavian vein, which is located in the neck. The clot can be removed either directly or with the use of a catheter. Thrombectomy is performed to restore normal blood flow in cases where a clot is obstructing the vein.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 34471 is: ‘Thrombectomy, direct or with catheter; subclavian vein, by neck incision.’ This code specifically refers to the surgical removal of a blood clot from the subclavian vein using an incision in the neck.

3. Procedure

1. During the procedure, the healthcare provider makes an incision in the neck over the clavicle bone.
2. They then advance into the subclavian vein and identify the site of the clot.
3. Clips are placed on either side of the clot to secure it.
4. The provider removes the clot from the subclavian vein.
5. In some cases, a balloon catheter may be used to assist in the removal of the clot. The catheter is inserted into the vein past the clot, inflated, and then withdrawn, pulling the clot out with it.
6. The provider repairs the vein and checks for normal blood flow through the repaired vessel.
7. The incision is closed with sutures in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 34471 is typically performed on patients who have a blood clot obstructing their subclavian vein. This procedure is necessary to restore normal blood flow and prevent complications associated with the clot. The provider must make an incision in the neck and access the subclavian vein to remove the clot. The use of a catheter may be necessary in some cases to aid in the removal process.

5. When to use CPT code 34471

CPT code 34471 should be used when a healthcare provider performs a thrombectomy on the subclavian vein using a neck incision. This code is specifically for the removal of a blood clot from the subclavian vein and should not be used for other types of thrombectomy procedures. It is important to accurately document the procedure and use the appropriate CPT code to ensure proper billing and reimbursement.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 34471, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis indicating the presence of a blood clot in the subclavian vein
• Description of the procedure performed, including the use of a neck incision and any additional techniques such as the use of a catheter
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the clot removal process, including the use of clips and/or a balloon catheter
• Confirmation of normal blood flow through the repaired vessel
• Closure of the incision with sutures
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 34471, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. The provider must perform a thrombectomy on the subclavian vein using a neck incision. It is also important to follow any additional guidelines provided by the payer or insurance company. It is recommended to review the specific billing guidelines for CPT code 34471 to ensure accurate reporting and reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT code 34471 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient presents with a blood clot in their subclavian vein. The healthcare provider performs a thrombectomy using a neck incision, removing the clot and restoring normal blood flow.
2. During a surgical procedure, a blood clot is discovered in the subclavian vein. The provider performs a thrombectomy by making an incision in the neck and successfully removes the clot.
3. A patient with a history of blood clots in the subclavian vein undergoes a thrombectomy procedure. The provider accesses the vein through a neck incision and removes the clot, ensuring proper blood flow.
4. Following a diagnosis of a blood clot in the subclavian vein, the healthcare provider performs a thrombectomy using a neck incision. The clot is successfully removed, and the patient’s blood flow is restored.
5. A patient presents with symptoms of a blood clot in the subclavian vein. The provider performs a thrombectomy procedure, making an incision in the neck and removing the clot to improve blood flow.
6. During a surgical intervention, a blood clot is discovered in the subclavian vein. The provider performs a thrombectomy using a neck incision, effectively removing the clot and restoring normal blood flow.
7. A patient with a known blood clot in the subclavian vein undergoes a thrombectomy procedure. The provider makes an incision in the neck, accesses the vein, and successfully removes the clot, ensuring proper blood flow.
8. Following a diagnosis of a blood clot in the subclavian vein, the healthcare provider performs a thrombectomy using a neck incision. The clot is removed, and the patient’s blood flow is restored.