How To Use CPT Code 36908

CPT 36908 describes the procedure for the transcatheter placement of intravascular stent(s) in the central dialysis segment. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 36908?

CPT 36908 can be used to describe the procedure of placing intravascular stent(s) in the central dialysis segment. This code is used when a healthcare provider performs the stenting procedure through the dialysis circuit, including all necessary imaging and radiological supervision and interpretation. The stenting procedure is performed to maintain the diameter of the vessel and ensure proper blood flow.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 36908 is: ‘Transcatheter placement of intravascular stent(s), central dialysis segment, performed through dialysis circuit, including all imaging and radiological supervision and interpretation required to perform the stenting, and all angioplasty in the central dialysis segment (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure).’ This code should be used in conjunction with other relevant codes for the primary procedure.

3. Procedure

1. During a primary procedure on the patient’s dialysis circuit, the healthcare provider identifies an obstructed central segment.
2. The provider uses dilators or a balloon passed through a catheter to open up the vessel.
3. A stent, a tubelike device, is then passed through the catheter and placed in the area to maintain the diameter of the vessel.
4. The healthcare provider confirms that the vessel is now open and continues with the primary procedure.
5. At the end of the procedure, the catheter is withdrawn, and pressure is applied to control bleeding.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 36908 is used when a healthcare provider performs the transcatheter placement of intravascular stent(s) in the central dialysis segment. This procedure is performed through the dialysis circuit and includes all necessary imaging and radiological supervision and interpretation. It is important to note that this code should not be reported in conjunction with certain other codes, as specified in the notes.

5. When to use CPT code 36908

CPT code 36908 should be used when a healthcare provider performs the transcatheter placement of intravascular stent(s) in the central dialysis segment through the dialysis circuit. This code should be used in addition to the primary procedure code. It is important to review the notes and guidelines to ensure appropriate usage of this code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 36908, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Details of the primary procedure performed on the dialysis circuit
• Description of the stenting procedure, including the number of stents placed
• Date and time of the procedure
• Confirmation of vessel patency after stent placement
• Imaging and radiological supervision and interpretation performed
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 36908, ensure that the procedure is performed through the dialysis circuit and includes all necessary imaging and radiological supervision and interpretation. This code should be reported in addition to the primary procedure code. It is important to review the notes and guidelines to determine if any other codes should be reported in conjunction with CPT 36908. Additionally, be aware of any specific tips or considerations provided for accurate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT 36908 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2017. The code has not undergone any updates since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider performs the transcatheter placement of intravascular stent(s) in the central dialysis segment through the dialysis circuit during a primary procedure on the patient’s dialysis circuit.
2. Using dilators and a catheter, the provider opens up the vessel and places a stent to maintain its diameter.
3. Imaging and radiological supervision and interpretation are performed to ensure the success of the stenting procedure.
4. The healthcare provider confirms vessel patency after stent placement and continues with the primary procedure.
5. At the end of the procedure, the catheter is withdrawn, and pressure is applied to control bleeding.
6. This example demonstrates the appropriate usage of CPT code 36908 for the transcatheter placement of intravascular stent(s) in the central dialysis segment.