How To Use CPT Code 37200

CPT 37200 describes a specific medical procedure that involves the insertion of a catheter into a blood vessel to obtain a tissue sample from the inner wall of the vessel. This article will provide an overview of CPT code 37200, including its official description, the procedure itself, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 37200?

CPT 37200 is a code used to describe a medical procedure in which a healthcare provider inserts a catheter into a blood vessel to obtain a tissue sample from the inner wall of the vessel. This procedure, known as a transcatheter biopsy, is performed to diagnose various diseases and conditions. It involves the use of a needle puncture or incision to access the affected vessel, followed by the advancement of a catheter to the site of the abnormality. The provider then uses a biopsy needle to collect tissue samples, which are sent to the laboratory for further examination.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 37200 is: ‘Transcatheter biopsy, any method (eg, aspiration, core), including radiological supervision and interpretation, when performed.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider prepares the patient for the procedure, ensuring appropriate anesthesia and prepping the access site.
2. The provider performs a needle puncture or incision to access the affected blood vessel.
3. A catheter is inserted into the vessel with the guidance of a guidewire.
4. Once the catheter reaches the site of the abnormality, the provider uses a biopsy needle to obtain tissue samples from the inner wall of the vessel.
5. The tissue samples are sent to the laboratory for further examination and diagnosis.
6. The provider removes the catheter and biopsy needle from the access site, stops any bleeding, and sutures the puncture site if necessary.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 37200 is used when a transcatheter biopsy is performed, regardless of the specific method used (such as aspiration or core biopsy). The procedure requires radiological supervision and interpretation. It is typically performed to diagnose diseases or conditions that affect the blood vessels, such as vascular tumors or abnormalities. The provider must document the medical necessity and indication for the biopsy, as well as the specific method used and any relevant findings.

5. When to use CPT code 37200

CPT code 37200 should be used when a healthcare provider performs a transcatheter biopsy, including radiological supervision and interpretation. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific requirements outlined in the code description. If the biopsy is performed using a different method or does not involve radiological supervision and interpretation, a different CPT code may be more appropriate.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 37200, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the biopsy and medical necessity
• Specific method used for the biopsy (e.g., aspiration, core biopsy)
• Date and time of the procedure
• Details of radiological supervision and interpretation
• Findings or any relevant abnormalities observed during the procedure
• Any additional procedures or interventions performed during the same session
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 37200, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific requirements outlined in the code description. The procedure must include radiological supervision and interpretation. It is also important to follow any additional guidelines or requirements set forth by the payer or insurance company. It is recommended to review the specific billing guidelines and requirements for CPT code 37200 to ensure accurate and appropriate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT code 37200 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1992. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A cardiologist performing a transcatheter biopsy to obtain tissue samples from a suspected vascular tumor in a patient’s blood vessel.
2. An interventional radiologist using a transcatheter biopsy to diagnose a patient with a suspected arterial abnormality.
3. A vascular surgeon performing a transcatheter biopsy to obtain tissue samples from a patient’s blood vessel to determine the cause of unexplained symptoms.
4. An oncologist using a transcatheter biopsy to collect tissue samples from a patient’s blood vessel for further examination and to guide treatment decisions.
5. An interventional radiologist performing a transcatheter biopsy to diagnose a patient with a suspected venous abnormality.
6. A vascular surgeon using a transcatheter biopsy to obtain tissue samples from a patient’s blood vessel to confirm a suspected diagnosis.
7. An interventional radiologist performing a transcatheter biopsy to obtain tissue samples from a patient’s blood vessel to monitor the progression of a known condition.