How To Use HCPCS Code C1768

HCPCS code C1768 describes a graft, vascular used in medical procedures. This code is used to identify the specific type of graft used in vascular surgeries. In this article, we will explore the details of HCPCS code C1768, including its official description, procedure, when to use it, billing guidelines, historical information, and Medicare and insurance coverage. We will also provide examples of when this code should be billed.

1. What is HCPCS C1768?

HCPCS code C1768 is used to identify a graft, vascular. This code is specific to the type of graft used in vascular surgeries. It is important for medical coders to accurately assign this code to ensure proper documentation and billing for the procedure.

2. Official Description

The official description of HCPCS code C1768 is “Graft, vascular.” The short description for this code is “Enteral supp not otherwise c.” This description indicates that the code is used to identify a vascular graft used in medical procedures.

3. Procedure

1. Preparation: The healthcare provider prepares the patient for the vascular surgery, ensuring that all necessary pre-operative procedures are completed.
2. Anesthesia: The patient is administered anesthesia to ensure they are comfortable and pain-free during the procedure.
3. Graft Placement: The vascular graft is carefully placed at the site of the incision, ensuring proper alignment and attachment.
4. Closure: The incision is closed using sutures or other closure methods.
5. Post-operative Care: The patient is monitored closely after the procedure to ensure proper healing and recovery.

4. When to use HCPCS code C1768

HCPCS code C1768 should be used when a vascular graft is used in a medical procedure. This code is specific to the graft itself and should not be used for other types of procedures or supplies. It is important to review the documentation and ensure that the use of the graft is clearly documented in the medical record before assigning this code.

5. Billing Guidelines and Documentation Requirements

When billing for HCPCS code C1768, healthcare providers need to ensure that the documentation supports the use of the vascular graft in the procedure. This may include operative notes, pathology reports, or other relevant documentation. It is important to accurately code and document the use of the graft to ensure proper reimbursement.

6. Historical Information and Code Maintenance

HCPCS code C1768 was added to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System on January 01, 1985. There have been no maintenance actions taken for this code, as indicated by the action code N, which means no maintenance for this code. It is important for medical coders to stay updated on any changes or revisions to the code to ensure accurate coding and billing.

7. Medicare and Insurance Coverage

HCPCS code C1768 is covered by Medicare and other insurance carriers. 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. Healthcare providers should review the specific guidelines and policies of each insurance carrier to ensure proper reimbursement for the use of this code.

8. Examples

Here are five examples of when HCPCS code C1768 should be billed:

1. A patient undergoes a vascular bypass surgery, and a vascular graft is used to bypass a blocked artery.
2. A patient with an aneurysm undergoes an endovascular repair procedure, and a vascular graft is used to reinforce the weakened blood vessel.
3. A patient with peripheral artery disease undergoes a peripheral artery bypass surgery, and a vascular graft is used to create a new pathway for blood flow.
4. A patient with aortic stenosis undergoes an aortic valve replacement surgery, and a vascular graft is used to repair the damaged blood vessel.
5. A patient with a traumatic injury to a blood vessel undergoes a vascular repair surgery, and a vascular graft is used to restore blood flow.