How To Use CPT Code 37501

CPT 37501 describes a vascular endoscopy procedure in the cardiovascular system that does not have a specific code. 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 37501?

CPT 37501 can be used to report a vascular endoscopy procedure in the cardiovascular system that does not have a specific code. This code is used when the provider performs an endoscopic procedure on the blood vessels that is not represented by any of the standard and active CPT codes available.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 37501 is: ‘Use 37501 to report vascular endoscopy procedures in the cardiovascular system that do not have a specific code.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider performs an endoscopic procedure on the blood vessels in the cardiovascular system.
2. The procedure involves the use of an endoscope, which is a medical instrument consisting of a long, thin, flexible or rigid tube with a light and a video camera.
3. The endoscope is inserted into the blood vessels to view or image the inside of the body.
4. The provider navigates the endoscope through the blood vessels to perform the necessary diagnostic or therapeutic interventions.
5. The procedure may involve the removal of blockages, the repair of damaged blood vessels, or other necessary treatments.
6. The provider completes the procedure and removes the endoscope from the body.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 37501 is used when there is no specific code available to accurately describe the vascular endoscopy procedure performed by the provider. This may occur when the procedure is unique or uncommon, and there is no existing code that precisely matches the service provided.

5. When to use CPT code 37501

CPT code 37501 should be used when the provider performs a vascular endoscopy procedure in the cardiovascular system that does not have a specific code. It is important to note that this code should only be used when there is no other appropriate code available to accurately describe the procedure.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 37501, the provider must document the following information:

• A detailed description of the procedure performed
• The reason for choosing CPT 37501 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 37501, ensure that there is no specific code available to accurately describe the vascular endoscopy procedure performed. Include a cover letter explaining the reason for choosing the unlisted code and provide a comparison to similar codes to justify the claim amount. Submit operative notes or other relevant documentation to support the claim and avoid a possible denial.

8. Historical information

CPT 37501 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2003. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs a vascular endoscopy procedure in the cardiovascular system to remove a blockage that does not have a specific code.
2. A patient requires a repair of a damaged blood vessel in the cardiovascular system, and the provider performs a vascular endoscopy procedure using CPT 37501.
3. A provider performs a unique diagnostic intervention in the blood vessels of the cardiovascular system that does not have a specific code, and CPT 37501 is used to report the procedure.
4. A patient undergoes a therapeutic intervention in the blood vessels of the cardiovascular system that does not have a specific code, and the provider uses CPT 37501 to report the procedure.
5. A provider performs a vascular endoscopy procedure in the cardiovascular system with multiple interventions that do not have specific codes, and CPT 37501 is used to accurately describe the procedure.