How To Use CPT Code 36222

CPT 36222 describes the procedure of selective catheter placement in the common carotid or innominate artery, along with angiography of the ipsilateral extracranial carotid circulation. 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 36222?

CPT 36222 can be used to describe the procedure of selective catheter placement in the common carotid or innominate artery, along with angiography of the ipsilateral extracranial carotid circulation. This code is used when a healthcare provider inserts a catheter through a distal artery, typically the femoral artery, and navigates it to the common carotid or innominate artery. Contrast material is then injected to obtain X-ray images and detect any vascular disease in the extracranial carotid circulation.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 36222 is: ‘Selective catheter placement, common carotid or innominate artery, unilateral, any approach, with angiography of the ipsilateral extracranial carotid circulation and all associated radiological supervision and interpretation, includes angiography of the cervicocerebral arch, when performed.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider prepares the patient and administers anesthesia if necessary.
2. A needle is used to puncture the site over a peripheral artery, most commonly the femoral artery.
3. A guidewire is inserted through the needle and threaded into the artery.
4. The needle is removed, and a catheter is inserted into the common carotid or innominate artery.
5. The guidewire is removed, and contrast material is injected into the artery.
6. The healthcare provider performs angiography by taking X-ray images as the contrast material flows through the extracranial carotid circulation and possibly the cervicocerebral arch.
7. After imaging the vessels, the catheter is removed, and pressure is applied to stop bleeding from the incision site.