How To Use CPT Code 34709

CPT 34709 describes the placement of extension prosthesis(es) for endovascular repair of infrarenal abdominal aortic or iliac aneurysm, false aneurysm, dissection, penetrating ulcer, including pre-procedure sizing and device selection, all nonselective catheterization(s), all associated radiological supervision and interpretation, and treatment zone angioplasty/stenting. This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 34709?

CPT 34709 can be used to describe the placement of extension prosthesis(es) for endovascular repair of infrarenal abdominal aortic or iliac aneurysm, false aneurysm, dissection, penetrating ulcer. This code includes pre-procedure sizing and device selection, all nonselective catheterization(s), all associated radiological supervision and interpretation, and treatment zone angioplasty/stenting. It is important to note that CPT 34709 should be used in conjunction with other primary codes for the specific procedure being performed.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 34709 is: ‘Placement of extension prosthesis(es) distal to the common iliac artery(ies) or proximal to the renal artery(ies) for endovascular repair of infrarenal abdominal aortic or iliac aneurysm, false aneurysm, dissection, penetrating ulcer, including pre-procedure sizing and device selection, all nonselective catheterization(s), all associated radiological supervision and interpretation, and treatment zone angioplasty/stenting, when performed, per vessel treated (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure).’ It is important to note the additional notes provided for this code, such as the limitation of reporting it only once per vessel treated and not reporting it for placement of a docking limb that extends into the external iliac artery.

3. Procedure

1. The procedure begins with the provider assessing the patient’s condition and determining the need for endovascular repair of an infrarenal abdominal aortic or iliac aneurysm, false aneurysm, dissection, or penetrating ulcer.
2. The provider selects the appropriate extension prosthesis(es) and modifies it if necessary for the specific patient and condition.
3. A nonselective catheterization is performed to access the targeted vessel(s) for the placement of the extension prosthesis(es).
4. The provider uses imaging guidance, such as fluoroscopy or ultrasound, to guide the placement of the extension prosthesis(es) distal to the common iliac artery(ies) or proximal to the renal artery(ies).
5. If necessary, angioplasty or stenting may be performed in the treatment zone to ensure proper blood flow and secure the extension prosthesis(es) to the artery walls.
6. The provider performs all associated radiological supervision and interpretation throughout the procedure.
7. After the placement of the extension prosthesis(es), the provider performs post-procedure angiography to confirm the correct position of the prosthesis(es).
8. The instruments are removed, and the provider checks for any bleeding at the access site.