How To Use CPT Code 35400

CPT 35400 describes the use of angioscopy during a therapeutic intervention on non-coronary vessels or grafts. 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 35400?

CPT 35400 is used to report the use of angioscopy during a therapeutic intervention on non-coronary vessels or grafts. This code is used when the provider performs angioscopy to visualize the internal surface of a blood vessel, allowing for improved visibility during interventions and identification of side vessels, anastomosis, or other anatomy as required. The angioscopy is performed at the same encounter as another surgical procedure.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 35400 is: ‘Angioscopy (noncoronary vessels or grafts) during therapeutic intervention (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure).’ This code should be reported as a separately reportable procedure in addition to the primary procedure.

3. Procedure

1. During a therapeutic intervention, the provider prepares the patient and administers anesthesia as necessary.
2. The provider sets up an angioscope and inserts it into the chosen non-coronary vessel or graft.
3. Using the angioscope, the provider visualizes the internal surface of the vessel, improving visibility for interventions and identifying relevant anatomy.
4. After completing the angioscopy, the provider removes the angioscope.
5. The provider closes the incision with sutures and dresses the wound.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 35400 is used when angioscopy is performed during a therapeutic intervention on non-coronary vessels or grafts. The patient must be appropriately prepped and anesthetized for the procedure. The angioscopy allows for improved visibility during interventions and identification of relevant anatomy.

5. When to use CPT code 35400

CPT code 35400 should be used when angioscopy is performed during a therapeutic intervention on non-coronary vessels or grafts. It should be reported as a separately reportable procedure in addition to the primary procedure. This code should not be reported without an appropriate primary code for the initial service.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 35400, the provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the angioscopy during the therapeutic intervention
• Details of the angioscopy procedure, including the vessel or graft involved
• Date of the procedure
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Any relevant findings or observations during the angioscopy
• Details of the primary procedure performed
• Signature of the provider performing the angioscopy

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 35400, ensure that the angioscopy is performed during a therapeutic intervention on non-coronary vessels or grafts. This code should be reported as a separately reportable procedure in addition to the primary procedure. It is important to use an appropriate primary code for the initial service to support reimbursement for CPT 35400.

8. Historical information

CPT 35400 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1998. The code description was updated on January 1, 2016 to clarify that it applies to angioscopy on non-coronary vessels or grafts. In 2017, it was added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare.

9. Examples

1. A surgeon performs an angioscopy during a therapeutic intervention to visualize the internal surface of a non-coronary vessel and identify relevant anatomy.
2. An interventional radiologist uses angioscopy during a therapeutic intervention on a graft to improve visibility for interventions and identify side vessels.
3. A vascular surgeon performs angioscopy during a therapeutic intervention on a non-coronary vessel to assess the internal surface and guide the procedure.
4. A cardiothoracic surgeon utilizes angioscopy during a therapeutic intervention on a graft to visualize the vessel and ensure proper placement.
5. An interventional cardiologist performs angioscopy during a therapeutic intervention on a non-coronary vessel to identify any abnormalities or blockages.
6. A vascular surgeon uses angioscopy during a therapeutic intervention on a graft to assess the vessel’s condition and guide the procedure.
7. An interventional radiologist performs angioscopy during a therapeutic intervention on a non-coronary vessel to improve visibility and aid in the intervention.