How To Use CPT Code 37780

CPT 37780 describes the ligation and division of the short saphenous vein at the saphenopopliteal junction, which is a separate procedure. 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 37780?

CPT 37780 is used to describe a specific surgical procedure involving the ligation and division of the short saphenous vein at the saphenopopliteal junction. This procedure is typically performed to treat varicose veins. It is important to note that this code should be reported with modifier 50 for a bilateral procedure.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 37780 is: ‘Ligation and division of short saphenous vein at saphenopopliteal junction (separate procedure).’ It is important to remember to use modifier 50 when reporting this code for a bilateral procedure.

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making an incision above the back of the knee joint area to access the short saphenous vein at the saphenopopliteal junction.
2. Once the vein is exposed, the provider separates it from adjacent structures.
3. The provider then ligates the vein using sutures and removes a small diseased segment of the vein between the two sutures.
4. Finally, the provider closes the area with sutures.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 37780 is typically performed on patients with varicose veins. The procedure involves the ligation and division of the short saphenous vein at the saphenopopliteal junction. It is important to note that this procedure should not be reported if the provider performs any other major procedure in the same area and session.

5. When to use CPT code 37780

CPT code 37780 should be used when the provider performs the ligation and division of the short saphenous vein at the saphenopopliteal junction as a separate procedure. It is important to use modifier 50 when reporting this code for a bilateral procedure.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 37780, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for the ligation and division of the short saphenous vein
• Details of the procedure, including the incision, exposure, ligation, and excision of the vein
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional relevant information or complications
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 37780, ensure that the procedure is performed as a separate procedure and not in conjunction with any other major procedure in the same area and session. Use modifier 50 for a bilateral procedure. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate billing and reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 37780 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 patient undergoes the ligation and division of the short saphenous vein at the saphenopopliteal junction to treat varicose veins.
2. A provider performs the ligation and division of the short saphenous vein at the saphenopopliteal junction as a separate procedure for a patient with symptomatic varicose veins.
3. A bilateral ligation and division of the short saphenous vein at the saphenopopliteal junction is performed on a patient with bilateral varicose veins.
4. A provider performs the ligation and division of the short saphenous vein at the saphenopopliteal junction as a separate procedure for a patient with chronic venous insufficiency.
5. A patient undergoes the ligation and division of the short saphenous vein at the saphenopopliteal junction to alleviate symptoms associated with varicose veins.
6. A provider performs the ligation and division of the short saphenous vein at the saphenopopliteal junction as a separate procedure for a patient with recurrent varicose veins.
7. A patient with symptomatic varicose veins undergoes the ligation and division of the short saphenous vein at the saphenopopliteal junction to improve their quality of life.
8. A provider performs the ligation and division of the short saphenous vein at the saphenopopliteal junction as a separate procedure for a patient with cosmetic concerns related to varicose veins.
9. A bilateral ligation and division of the short saphenous vein at the saphenopopliteal junction is performed on a patient with bilateral varicose veins to alleviate symptoms and improve circulation.
10. A provider performs the ligation and division of the short saphenous vein at the saphenopopliteal junction as a separate procedure for a patient with venous ulcers associated with varicose veins.