How To Use CPT Code 86891

CPT 86891 describes the collection, processing, and storage of autologous blood or blood components during an intra- or postoperative salvage procedure. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 86891?

CPT 86891 can be used to describe the collection, processing, and storage of autologous blood or blood components during an intra- or postoperative salvage procedure. This code is used when a clinician suctions blood from the surgical field and utilizes a cell saver to wash, centrifuge, and store the blood for potential reinfusion during or after the surgical encounter.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 86891 is: ‘Autologous blood or component, collection processing and storage; intra- or postoperative salvage.’

3. Procedure

1. The clinician suctions blood from the surgical field during an intra- or postoperative procedure.
2. The blood enters a cell saver, such as a perioperative auto cell saver (PAC), which washes, centrifuges, or spins the blood.
3. The processed blood is then stored in an infusion bag until it is needed.
4. If necessary, the stored blood may be reinfused into the patient during or after the surgical encounter.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 86891 is used when autologous blood or blood components are collected, processed, and stored during an intra- or postoperative salvage procedure. This procedure is typically performed by a surgeon or a member of the surgical team. The purpose of collecting the blood is to reduce the need for additional homologous blood products, which are blood products collected for use by someone other than the donor.

5. When to use CPT code 86891

CPT code 86891 should be used when a clinician performs the collection, processing, and storage of autologous blood or blood components during an intra- or postoperative salvage procedure. It is important to note that this code should not be reported if other codes, such as CPT codes 86892-86999, have already been used to describe similar procedures performed within the same encounter.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 86891, the clinician must document the following information:

• Details of the surgical procedure and the need for intra- or postoperative blood salvage
• Description of the collection, processing, and storage techniques used
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Quantity of blood collected and processed
• Any complications or adverse events related to the procedure
• Signature of the clinician performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 86891, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for intra- or postoperative blood salvage. It is important to report this code accurately and not to use it if other similar codes have already been reported for the same encounter. Additionally, consider the location of the procedure, as it may impact how the code is reported.

8. Historical information

CPT 86891 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1993. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A surgeon collects, processes, and stores autologous blood during a cardiac surgery procedure for potential reinfusion.
2. A member of the surgical team suctions blood from the surgical field during a joint replacement surgery and utilizes a cell saver to wash and store the blood for potential reinfusion.
3. A clinician performs intraoperative blood salvage during a liver transplant surgery, collecting and processing the patient’s own blood for potential reinfusion.
4. A surgeon utilizes a cell saver to collect, process, and store autologous blood during a spinal fusion surgery for potential reinfusion.
5. A member of the surgical team performs postoperative blood salvage, collecting and processing the patient’s own blood for potential reinfusion after a major trauma surgery.
6. A clinician suctions blood from the surgical field during a cesarean section and utilizes a cell saver to collect, process, and store the blood for potential reinfusion.
7. A surgeon collects, processes, and stores autologous blood during a vascular surgery procedure for potential reinfusion.
8. A member of the surgical team performs intraoperative blood salvage during a hip replacement surgery, collecting and processing the patient’s own blood for potential reinfusion.
9. A clinician utilizes a cell saver to collect, process, and store autologous blood during a thoracic surgery for potential reinfusion.
10. A surgeon suctions blood from the surgical field during a gastrointestinal surgery and utilizes a cell saver to wash and store the blood for potential reinfusion.