How To Use CPT Code 37718

CPT 37718 describes a procedure known as ligation, division, and stripping of the short saphenous vein. This article will provide an overview of CPT code 37718, 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 37718?

CPT 37718 is a code used to describe a specific surgical procedure. It involves the ligation, division, and stripping of the short saphenous vein, which is commonly done to treat varicose veins. This procedure is performed by a healthcare provider who makes incisions to access the vein and removes it using a stripping device.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 37718 is: ‘Ligation, division, and stripping, short saphenous vein.’ It is important to note that if the procedure is performed bilaterally, the modifier 50 should be used. Additionally, CPT code 37718 should not be reported in conjunction with codes 37735 and 37780.

3. Procedure

1. During the procedure, the healthcare provider makes incisions above the posterior knee joint area in the upper thigh or leg to access the short saphenous vein.
2. Another incision is made in the calf area over the vein or along the leg as necessary.
3. The provider exposes the vein and divides it just below the affected area.
4. The remaining end of the vein is ligated with sutures.
5. A stripping device is then inserted at the upper incision and pushed all the way to the lower incision.
6. The end of the vein is attached to the stripping device at the lower incision, and the provider pulls the vein out with the device as it is removed through the upper incision.
7. After the vein is removed, the provider closes both incisions in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT code 37718 is used for patients who require the ligation, division, and stripping of the short saphenous vein to treat varicose veins. The procedure is performed by a healthcare provider and may be necessary for individuals experiencing symptoms such as pain, discoloration of the skin, and ulcers due to the failure of valves in the vein.

5. When to use CPT code 37718

CPT code 37718 should be used when a healthcare provider performs the ligation, division, and stripping of the short saphenous vein to treat varicose veins. It is important to note that this code should not be used in conjunction with codes 37735 and 37780.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 37718, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for the procedure
• Details of the procedure, including the incisions made, the division and ligation of the vein, and the use of a stripping device
• Date of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the healthcare provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 37718, ensure that the procedure is performed by a qualified healthcare provider. It is important to follow the appropriate coding guidelines and not report CPT code 37718 in conjunction with codes 37735 and 37780.

8. Historical information

CPT code 37718 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2006. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider performing the ligation, division, and stripping of the short saphenous vein to treat varicose veins in a patient.
2. A surgeon making incisions to access the short saphenous vein and using a stripping device to remove it in a patient with symptomatic varicose veins.
3. A vascular specialist performing the ligation, division, and stripping of the short saphenous vein to alleviate pain and improve circulation in a patient.
4. A healthcare provider performing the procedure to treat varicose veins in a patient who has experienced skin discoloration and ulcers.
5. A surgeon using a stripping device to remove the short saphenous vein and improve the patient’s symptoms of varicose veins.
6. A healthcare provider performing the ligation, division, and stripping of the short saphenous vein in a patient with significant venous insufficiency.
7. A vascular specialist performing the procedure to treat varicose veins in a patient who has failed conservative management.
8. A surgeon making incisions and using a stripping device to remove the short saphenous vein in a patient with chronic venous disease.
9. A healthcare provider performing the ligation, division, and stripping of the short saphenous vein to improve the patient’s quality of life and alleviate symptoms.
10. A vascular specialist using a stripping device to remove the short saphenous vein and improve the patient’s venous circulation.