How To Use CPT Code 37700

CPT 37700 describes the ligation and division of the long saphenous vein at the saphenofemoral junction or distal interruptions. 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 37700?

CPT 37700 is a code used to describe a surgical procedure in which the provider ties off and separates the long saphenous vein at the point where it meets the femoral vein or along the upper leg as necessary. This procedure is commonly performed to treat varicose veins.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 37700 is: ‘Ligation and division of long saphenous vein at saphenofemoral junction, or distal interruptions.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider makes multiple incisions over the affected areas of the thigh and along the long saphenous vein.
2. He exposes the vein at the targeted areas and applies clamps.
3. The provider then divides the affected areas of the vein and ligates the remaining ends with sutures.
4. After ligation at each place along the leg, he removes the clamps, secures the vein back, and sutures each of the surgical wounds in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 37700 is performed on patients with varicose veins or other conditions that require the ligation and division of the long saphenous vein. The procedure is typically done by a qualified healthcare professional.

5. When to use CPT code 37700

CPT code 37700 should be used when the provider performs the ligation and division of the long saphenous vein at the saphenofemoral junction or distal interruptions. It is important to note that CPT code 37700 should not be reported in conjunction with codes 37718 or 37722.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 37700, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for the ligation and division of the long saphenous vein
• Specific details of the procedure, including the incisions made, clamping, division, and ligation of the vein
• Date of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 37700, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for this specific code. It should not be reported with codes 37718 or 37722. If the procedure is performed bilaterally, use modifier 50.

8. Historical information

CPT 37700 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs the ligation and division of the long saphenous vein at the saphenofemoral junction to treat varicose veins in a patient.
2. A patient undergoes the ligation and division of the long saphenous vein at distal interruptions to alleviate symptoms of venous insufficiency.
3. A provider performs the ligation and division of the long saphenous vein at the saphenofemoral junction as part of a larger surgical procedure to treat deep vein thrombosis.
4. A patient with chronic venous insufficiency undergoes the ligation and division of the long saphenous vein to improve blood flow and alleviate symptoms.
5. A provider performs the ligation and division of the long saphenous vein at distal interruptions to treat a patient with recurrent varicose veins.
6. A patient undergoes the ligation and division of the long saphenous vein at the saphenofemoral junction to prevent the progression of venous disease.
7. A provider performs the ligation and division of the long saphenous vein at distal interruptions to treat a patient with leg ulcers caused by venous insufficiency.
8. A patient undergoes the ligation and division of the long saphenous vein at the saphenofemoral junction to improve the cosmetic appearance of varicose veins.
9. A provider performs the ligation and division of the long saphenous vein at distal interruptions to alleviate pain and discomfort in a patient with varicose veins.
10. A patient undergoes the ligation and division of the long saphenous vein at the saphenofemoral junction to prevent the development of complications associated with venous disease.