How To Use CPT Code 37180

CPT 37180 describes the procedure of venous anastomosis, specifically the creation of a proximal splenorenal connection. This article will cover the official description, procedure details, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 37180?

CPT 37180 is used to describe the surgical procedure of venous anastomosis, specifically the creation of a proximal splenorenal connection. This procedure involves the incision of the patient’s abdomen and the connection of the upper ends of the splenic vein and the renal vein. It is often performed during spleen removal surgeries.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 37180 is: ‘Venous anastomosis, open; splenorenal, proximal.’

3. Procedure

1. The surgeon makes an incision in the patient’s abdomen to access the surgical site.
2. Through careful dissection, the surgeon locates the splenic vein on the underside of the pancreas and the left renal vein of the kidney.
3. The surgeon temporarily stops the blood flow by tying off or clamping both the splenic vein and the renal vein.
4. Using surgical techniques, the surgeon incises the upper ends of both veins.
5. The surgeon then sutures the splenic vein and the renal vein together, creating an anastomosis between the two.
6. After ensuring there is no blood leakage, the surgeon removes the clamps and checks the blood flow.
7. The surgeon stops any bleeding and closes the wound by suturing the soft tissues in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 37180 is performed when there is a need to create a proximal splenorenal venous anastomosis. This procedure is typically done during spleen removal surgeries. It is important to note that this code is specific to the splenorenal connection and does not cover other types of anastomoses.

5. When to use CPT code 37180

CPT code 37180 should be used when the surgeon performs a venous anastomosis, specifically a splenorenal connection. It is important to accurately document the procedure and ensure that it aligns with the official description of CPT 37180.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 37180, the surgeon must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for a splenorenal venous anastomosis
• Details of the surgical procedure, including the incision, dissection, and suturing
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional relevant information or complications
• Signature of the performing surgeon

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 37180, ensure that the procedure performed aligns with the official description of the code. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure and any additional relevant information. CPT 37180 should not be reported with other codes unless there are specific circumstances that warrant their use. It is recommended to review the official coding guidelines and consult with coding experts to ensure accurate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT 37180 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. However, it is important to stay updated with any future changes or revisions to ensure accurate coding.

9. Examples

1. A surgeon performs a splenorenal venous anastomosis during a spleen removal surgery to address portal hypertension in a patient.
2. During a complex abdominal surgery, a surgeon creates a proximal splenorenal connection to improve blood flow in a patient with portal vein thrombosis.
3. A patient with a history of renal vein obstruction undergoes a surgical procedure in which a surgeon performs a splenorenal venous anastomosis to restore proper blood flow.
4. In a patient with portal hypertension, a surgeon performs a splenorenal venous anastomosis to alleviate symptoms and improve liver function.
5. During a surgical procedure to address complications from cirrhosis, a surgeon creates a proximal splenorenal connection to relieve portal vein pressure.
6. A patient with a splenic vein aneurysm undergoes a surgical procedure in which a surgeon performs a splenorenal venous anastomosis to prevent rupture and restore normal blood flow.
7. In a patient with portal vein stenosis, a surgeon performs a splenorenal venous anastomosis to bypass the narrowed area and improve blood flow.
8. A surgeon performs a splenorenal venous anastomosis during a liver transplant surgery to ensure proper venous drainage.
9. During a complex abdominal surgery, a surgeon creates a proximal splenorenal connection to address complications from portal vein thrombosis.
10. A patient with portal hypertension undergoes a surgical procedure in which a surgeon performs a splenorenal venous anastomosis to reduce the risk of variceal bleeding.