How To Use CPT Code 37760

CPT 37760 describes the procedure of ligation of perforator veins, subfascial, radical (Linton type), including skin graft, when performed, open, for one leg. This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 37760?

CPT 37760 is a code used to describe a surgical procedure called ligation of perforator veins. This procedure involves making incisions along the affected vein and accessing the targeted perforator vein, which connects the superficial vein to the deep veins. The provider then ligates the perforator vein, treating varicose veins in one leg. In some cases, a skin graft may be placed at the excision site to cover the wound.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 37760 is: ‘Ligation of perforator veins, subfascial, radical (Linton type), including skin graft, when performed, open, 1 leg.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider makes incisions along the affected vein to access the targeted perforator vein.
2. The provider incises through the fascia and separates the perforator vein.
3. The provider ligates the perforator vein using a suture or clip.
4. The provider excises nearby diseased soft tissues.
5. The provider secures the ligated vein inside the fascia and sutures the fascia covering around it.
6. If necessary, the provider places a skin graft at the excision site to cover the wound.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 37760 is performed on patients with varicose veins in one leg. The procedure is considered radical (Linton type) and involves the ligation of perforator veins. It may also include the placement of a skin graft. This procedure is typically performed by a qualified healthcare professional.

5. When to use CPT code 37760

CPT code 37760 should be used when a provider performs the ligation of perforator veins, subfascial, radical (Linton type), including skin graft, open, for one leg. It is important to note that this code should only be used once for one leg. If the procedure is performed on both legs, the appropriate modifier should be used to indicate a bilateral procedure.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 37760, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for the procedure
• Details of the procedure performed, including the incisions made, the ligation of the perforator vein, and any skin graft placement
• Date of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 37760, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria described in the official description. It is important to use the appropriate modifier if the procedure is performed on both legs. Additionally, do not report graft harvesting and placement separately. Follow the payer’s guidelines for reporting bilateral procedures.

8. Historical information

CPT 37760 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been a few changes to the code since its addition, including updates to the description and the inclusion of skin graft when performed.

9. Examples

1. A surgeon performs ligation of perforator veins, subfascial, radical (Linton type), including skin graft, open, for a patient with varicose veins in one leg.
2. A vascular specialist performs the procedure on a patient with extensive varicose veins in one leg, including the placement of a skin graft.
3. A provider performs the ligation of perforator veins, subfascial, radical (Linton type), including skin graft, open, for a patient with recurrent varicose veins in one leg.
4. A surgeon performs the procedure on a patient with symptomatic varicose veins in one leg, using a skin graft to cover the excision site.
5. A provider performs the ligation of perforator veins, subfascial, radical (Linton type), including skin graft, open, for a patient with complications from varicose veins in one leg.
6. A vascular specialist performs the procedure on a patient with severe varicose veins in one leg, achieving successful ligation of the perforator veins and placement of a skin graft.
7. A surgeon performs the ligation of perforator veins, subfascial, radical (Linton type), including skin graft, open, for a patient with chronic venous insufficiency in one leg.
8. A provider performs the procedure on a patient with significant pain and swelling due to varicose veins in one leg, providing relief through the ligation of perforator veins and placement of a skin graft.
9. A vascular specialist performs the ligation of perforator veins, subfascial, radical (Linton type), including skin graft, open, for a patient with cosmetic concerns related to varicose veins in one leg.
10. A surgeon performs the procedure on a patient with recurrent ulcers caused by varicose veins in one leg, achieving successful healing through the ligation of perforator veins and placement of a skin graft.