How To Use CPT Code 36466

CPT 36466 describes the injection of a noncompounded foam sclerosant into multiple incompetent truncal veins under ultrasound guidance to guide the dispersion of foam. 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 36466?

CPT 36466 can be used to describe the injection of a noncompounded foam sclerosant into multiple incompetent truncal veins of the same leg. This procedure is performed under ultrasound guidance to guide the dispersion of the foam. It is commonly used to treat varicose veins.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 36466 is: ‘Injection of non-compounded foam sclerosant with ultrasound compression maneuvers to guide dispersion of the injectate, inclusive of all imaging guidance and monitoring; multiple incompetent truncal veins (eg, great saphenous vein, accessory saphenous vein), same leg.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by prepping the patient appropriately for the procedure.
2. Using an ultrasound probe, the provider identifies the diseased veins that require treatment.
3. A syringe filled with a foam sclerosing solution is inserted into the diseased veins.
4. The provider applies ultrasound compression maneuvers to guide the dispersion of the foam within the veins.
5. The foam sclerosant causes the walls of the veins to collapse.
6. After injecting the solution, the provider removes the needle and applies pressure to stop any bleeding.
7. This procedure is repeated on multiple veins of the same leg.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 36466 is used for the treatment of multiple incompetent truncal veins of the same leg using a noncompounded foam sclerosant. This procedure is performed under ultrasound guidance to ensure accurate placement and dispersion of the foam. It is important to note that CPT 36466 should not be reported in conjunction with certain other codes, such as those for extremity truncal vein injection of compounded foam sclerosant or endovenous ablation therapy using a chemical adhesive.

5. When to use CPT code 36466

CPT code 36466 should be used when a provider performs the injection of a noncompounded foam sclerosant into multiple incompetent truncal veins of the same leg. This code is appropriate when ultrasound guidance is used to guide the dispersion of the injectate. It is important to review the documentation and ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 36466, the provider must document the following information:

• Identification of the multiple incompetent truncal veins requiring treatment
• Use of a noncompounded foam sclerosant
• Ultrasound guidance and compression maneuvers used during the procedure
• Date and time of the procedure
• Details of the foam sclerosant injection and dispersion
• Any additional procedures or treatments performed during the same session
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 36466, ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. It is important to review the documentation and ensure accurate reporting. Additionally, be aware of any bundling or unbundling rules that may apply to this code. For example, CPT 36466 should not be reported in conjunction with certain other codes, as mentioned in the qualifying circumstances section.

8. Historical information

CPT 36466 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2018. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider injects a noncompounded foam sclerosant into multiple incompetent truncal veins of the same leg under ultrasound guidance to treat varicose veins.
2. Using ultrasound compression maneuvers, a provider guides the dispersion of a foam sclerosant injected into multiple incompetent truncal veins of the same leg to improve venous circulation.
3. A patient undergoes a procedure in which a noncompounded foam sclerosant is injected into multiple incompetent truncal veins of the same leg to alleviate symptoms associated with varicose veins.
4. Under ultrasound guidance, a provider performs the injection of a noncompounded foam sclerosant into multiple incompetent truncal veins of the same leg to address venous insufficiency.
5. A foam sclerosant is injected into multiple incompetent truncal veins of the same leg under ultrasound guidance to promote the collapse of varicose veins and improve blood flow.
6. Using ultrasound imaging, a provider administers a noncompounded foam sclerosant into multiple incompetent truncal veins of the same leg to treat venous reflux and reduce the appearance of varicose veins.
7. A patient receives a procedure in which a noncompounded foam sclerosant is injected into multiple incompetent truncal veins of the same leg to alleviate pain and discomfort caused by varicose veins.
8. Under ultrasound guidance, a provider performs the injection of a foam sclerosant into multiple incompetent truncal veins of the same leg to improve venous circulation and reduce the risk of complications associated with varicose veins.
9. A foam sclerosant is injected into multiple incompetent truncal veins of the same leg under ultrasound guidance to promote the closure of varicose veins and improve overall venous function.
10. Using ultrasound imaging, a provider administers a noncompounded foam sclerosant into multiple incompetent truncal veins of the same leg to address venous insufficiency and improve the patient’s quality of life.