How To Use HCPCS Code C1761

HCPCS code C1761 describes a specific medical device known as a catheter, transluminal intravascular lithotripsy, coronary. This code is used to identify and bill for the use of this particular catheter in medical procedures. In this article, we will explore the details of HCPCS code C1761, including its official description, procedure, when to use it, billing guidelines, historical information, Medicare and insurance coverage, and provide examples of when this code should be billed.

1. What is HCPCS C1761?

HCPCS code C1761 is a unique code that is used to identify a specific medical device, the catheter, transluminal intravascular lithotripsy, coronary. This catheter is designed for use in intravascular lithotripsy procedures in the coronary arteries. It is used to treat patients with coronary artery disease by delivering sonic pressure waves to break up calcified plaque and restore blood flow.

2. Official Description

The official description of HCPCS code C1761 is “Catheter, transluminal intravascular lithotripsy, coronary.” The short description for this code is “Parenteral supp not othrws c.”

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by accessing the patient’s coronary artery using standard percutaneous techniques.
2. The catheter, transluminal intravascular lithotripsy, coronary (HCPCS code C1761) is then inserted into the coronary artery.
3. Once the catheter is in place, the provider activates the lithotripsy system, which delivers sonic pressure waves to the calcified plaque in the artery.
4. The sonic pressure waves break up the calcified plaque, restoring blood flow in the coronary artery.
5. After the procedure is complete, the catheter is removed, and the access site is closed using standard closure techniques.

4. When to use HCPCS code C1761

HCPCS code C1761 should be used when performing a transluminal intravascular lithotripsy procedure in the coronary arteries. This code is specific to the use of the catheter, transluminal intravascular lithotripsy, coronary, and should not be used for other procedures or devices.

5. Billing Guidelines and Documentation Requirements

When billing for the use of HCPCS code C1761, healthcare providers should ensure that the procedure and device are documented accurately in the patient’s medical record. The documentation should include details of the procedure, such as the access site, the use of the catheter, and the activation of the lithotripsy system. Additionally, providers should follow the appropriate billing guidelines and submit the claim with the necessary supporting documentation.

6. Historical Information and Code Maintenance

HCPCS code C1761 was added to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System on January 01, 1985. It has an effective date of January 01, 1996. There have been no maintenance actions taken for this code, as indicated by the action code N, which means no maintenance for this code.

7. Medicare and Insurance Coverage

Medicare and other insurance providers may cover the use of HCPCS code C1761, but coverage may vary depending on the specific policy and guidelines. The pricing indicator code for this code is 57, which indicates that it is priced by other carriers. The multiple pricing indicator code is A, which means it is not applicable as HCPCS priced under one methodology. Providers should check with the respective payers for specific coverage and reimbursement information.

8. Examples

Here are five examples of when HCPCS code C1761 should be billed:

1. A patient with severe coronary artery disease undergoes a transluminal intravascular lithotripsy procedure using the catheter, transluminal intravascular lithotripsy, coronary (HCPCS code C1761).
2. A cardiologist performs a coronary angioplasty procedure and utilizes the catheter, transluminal intravascular lithotripsy, coronary (HCPCS code C1761) to treat calcified plaque in the patient’s coronary artery.
3. A patient with a history of coronary artery disease undergoes a follow-up procedure to address recurrent calcified plaque using the catheter, transluminal intravascular lithotripsy, coronary (HCPCS code C1761).
4. A patient with multiple coronary artery lesions undergoes a complex procedure involving the use of multiple catheters, including the catheter, transluminal intravascular lithotripsy, coronary (HCPCS code C1761).
5. A patient with a calcified coronary artery lesion undergoes a transluminal intravascular lithotripsy procedure using the catheter, transluminal intravascular lithotripsy, coronary (HCPCS code C1761) as an alternative to traditional balloon angioplasty.