How To Use CPT Code 36299

CPT 36299 describes a vascular injection procedure that does not have a specific code. This article will cover the description, official guidelines, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 36299?

CPT 36299 can be used to report a vascular injection procedure that does not have a specific code available. This code is used when the provider performs a procedure that is not represented by any of the standard and active CPT codes.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 36299 is not available. However, it is important to note that CPT guidelines instruct that you should not choose a code that merely approximates the service provided. You should report the service using only the appropriate unlisted procedure code if no specific procedure or service code exists. If a Category III code is available, it should be reported instead of an unlisted procedure code.

3. Procedure

1. The provider performs a vascular injection procedure that does not have a specific code available.
2. The procedure may involve the use of a catheter and infusion pump.
3. The provider carefully administers the injection into the appropriate vascular site.
4. The procedure may be performed under imaging guidance to ensure accurate placement of the injection.
5. The provider monitors the patient during and after the procedure for any complications or adverse reactions.
6. Additional steps may be involved depending on the specific circumstances of the procedure.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 36299 can be used when the provider performs a vascular injection procedure that does not have a specific code available. This may occur when the procedure is unique or uncommon, and there is no existing code that accurately represents the service provided. It is important to note that CPT guidelines recommend using an unlisted procedure code only when no specific procedure or service code exists.

5. When to use CPT code 36299

CPT code 36299 should be used when the provider performs a vascular injection procedure that does not have a specific code available. It is important to ensure that there is no other code that accurately represents the service provided before reporting CPT 36299. If a Category III code is available for a similar procedure, it should be reported instead of using an unlisted procedure code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 36299, the provider must document the following information:

• A detailed description of the procedure performed
• The reason for choosing the unlisted code instead of a defined, active code
• Comparison to similar codes to justify the claim amount
• Operative notes or other relevant documentation to strengthen the claim

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 36299, it is important to follow the appropriate guidelines. Ensure that there is no specific code available that accurately represents the service provided before reporting CPT 36299. Include a cover letter explaining the reason for choosing the unlisted code and provide one or more similar codes for comparison. Submit operative notes or other relevant documentation to support the claim and avoid possible denial.

8. Historical information

CPT 36299 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A radiologist performing a vascular injection procedure to deliver chemotherapy directly to a tumor site.
2. An interventional cardiologist administering a vascular injection to treat a blocked artery.
3. An interventional radiologist performing a vascular injection to embolize a bleeding vessel.
4. A vascular surgeon injecting a sclerosing agent into varicose veins to close them.
5. An interventional neuroradiologist performing a vascular injection to deliver medication to a brain aneurysm.
6. A vascular surgeon injecting a contrast agent into blood vessels to visualize them during a diagnostic procedure.
7. An interventional radiologist performing a vascular injection to deliver a radioisotope for targeted cancer treatment.
8. A neurologist administering a vascular injection to deliver a medication for acute stroke treatment.
9. An interventional radiologist performing a vascular injection to deliver a clot-dissolving medication for deep vein thrombosis.
10. A vascular surgeon injecting a local anesthetic into blood vessels for pain management purposes.