How To Use CPT Code 36160

CPT 36160 describes the introduction of a needle or intracatheter into the aorta through the lumbar region. 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 36160?

CPT 36160 can be used to describe the procedure in which a healthcare provider inserts a needle or catheter into the aorta through the lumbar region. This is done to treat dilation or stricture in an artery. The provider punctures the skin on the patient’s back, locates the space between the ribs in the lumbar region, and advances the needle down to the level of the aorta. Once the needle is in place, a guide wire may be inserted into the aorta, and if necessary, a catheter can be introduced over the guide wire. The catheter is then secured with sutures.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 36160 is: ‘Introduction of needle or intracatheter, aortic, translumbar.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider prepares the patient and administers anesthesia.
2. Using a needle, the provider punctures the skin on the patient’s back, targeting the space between the ribs in the lumbar region.
3. With the assistance of a long needle, the provider advances it down to the level of the aorta.
4. Once the needle is in the aorta, the provider withdraws blood to confirm successful placement.
5. A guide wire is then inserted through the needle into the aorta.
6. If necessary, a catheter is introduced over the guide wire.
7. At the end of the procedure, the catheter is secured with sutures.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 36160 is performed when a patient requires treatment for dilation or stricture in an artery. The procedure is typically done on patients with conditions that affect the aorta, such as aneurysms or stenosis. The patient must be appropriately prepped and anesthetized before the procedure. The healthcare provider performing the procedure should have the necessary expertise and training to safely and effectively introduce the needle or catheter into the aorta.

5. When to use CPT code 36160

CPT code 36160 should be used when a healthcare provider performs the procedure of introducing a needle or intracatheter into the aorta through the lumbar region. It is important to ensure that the procedure is medically necessary and meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. This code should not be used for any other procedures or interventions.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 36160, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the procedure, including the diagnosis or condition being treated
• Details of the procedure, including the specific approach used and any modifications made
• Date and time of the procedure
• Any complications or adverse events that occurred during or after the procedure
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 36160, ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure and any necessary supporting documentation. CPT code 36160 should not be reported with other codes unless there are distinct and separate procedures being performed. It is essential to follow the coding and billing guidelines provided by the relevant payer to ensure proper reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT code 36160 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 with an aortic aneurysm undergoes the introduction of a needle into the aorta through the lumbar region to treat the dilation.
2. A healthcare provider performs the procedure of introducing an intracatheter into the aorta through the lumbar region to address a stenosis in the artery.
3. A patient with aortic dissection undergoes the insertion of a needle into the aorta through the lumbar region to alleviate the condition.
4. A healthcare provider performs the procedure of introducing an intracatheter into the aorta through the lumbar region to treat an aortic coarctation.
5. A patient with aortic thrombosis undergoes the insertion of a needle into the aorta through the lumbar region to remove the blood clot.
6. A healthcare provider performs the procedure of introducing an intracatheter into the aorta through the lumbar region to address an aortic embolism.
7. A patient with aortic stenosis undergoes the insertion of a needle into the aorta through the lumbar region to alleviate the narrowing of the artery.
8. A healthcare provider performs the procedure of introducing an intracatheter into the aorta through the lumbar region to treat an aortic pseudoaneurysm.
9. A patient with aortic rupture undergoes the insertion of a needle into the aorta through the lumbar region to repair the tear in the artery.
10. A healthcare provider performs the procedure of introducing an intracatheter into the aorta through the lumbar region to address an aortic arteriovenous fistula.