How To Use CPT Code 38794

CPT 38794 describes the procedure of cannulation of the thoracic duct by a healthcare provider. This article will cover the description, official details, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 38794?

CPT 38794 is used to describe the procedure of cannulation of the thoracic duct. This involves the insertion of a cannula into the thoracic duct by a healthcare provider for therapeutic or diagnostic purposes. The cannula is used to administer medication or dye and is then removed.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 38794 is: ‘Cannulation, thoracic duct.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider prepares the patient and administers anesthesia.
2. An incision is made in the chest or abdomen to expose the thoracic duct.
3. A small incision is made in the thoracic duct, and a cannula or catheter is inserted.
4. The provider injects medication or dye through the cannula.
5. The cannula is then removed, and any bleeding is stopped.
6. The incision is closed in layers.
7. This procedure is often performed in conjunction with another procedure.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 38794 is performed when there are anomalies of the thoracic duct or when medication or dye needs to be injected for therapeutic or diagnostic purposes. The procedure is carried out by a healthcare provider who is trained and qualified to perform the cannulation of the thoracic duct.

5. When to use CPT code 38794

CPT code 38794 should be used when a healthcare provider performs the cannulation of the thoracic duct. It is important to ensure that the procedure is necessary for therapeutic or diagnostic purposes and that the provider is appropriately trained and qualified to perform the procedure.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 38794, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the procedure and any anomalies of the thoracic duct
• Details of the cannula or catheter used
• Date and time of the procedure
• Medication or dye administered through the cannula
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 38794, ensure that the procedure is performed by a qualified healthcare provider and that the documentation supports the medical necessity of the procedure. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer and to use the appropriate modifiers if required. CPT code 38794 should not be reported with other codes unless specifically indicated by the payer.

8. Historical information

CPT 38794 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider performs cannulation of the thoracic duct to inject dye for diagnostic purposes in a patient with suspected lymphatic system abnormalities.
2. During a surgical procedure, a healthcare provider cannulates the thoracic duct to administer medication for therapeutic purposes in a patient with a known thoracic duct anomaly.
3. A healthcare provider performs cannulation of the thoracic duct to inject medication for therapeutic purposes in a patient with lymphatic system dysfunction.
4. As part of a research study, a healthcare provider cannulates the thoracic duct to collect lymphatic fluid samples for analysis in patients with specific medical conditions.
5. A healthcare provider performs cannulation of the thoracic duct to inject contrast dye for imaging purposes in a patient with suspected lymphatic system abnormalities.
6. During a surgical procedure, a healthcare provider cannulates the thoracic duct to administer medication for therapeutic purposes in a patient with a known thoracic duct anomaly.
7. A healthcare provider performs cannulation of the thoracic duct to inject medication for therapeutic purposes in a patient with lymphatic system dysfunction.
8. As part of a research study, a healthcare provider cannulates the thoracic duct to collect lymphatic fluid samples for analysis in patients with specific medical conditions.
9. A healthcare provider performs cannulation of the thoracic duct to inject contrast dye for imaging purposes in a patient with suspected lymphatic system abnormalities.
10. During a surgical procedure, a healthcare provider cannulates the thoracic duct to administer medication for therapeutic purposes in a patient with a known thoracic duct anomaly.