How To Use HCPCS Code C1886

HCPCS code C1886 describes a catheter used for extravascular tissue ablation, regardless of the modality used. This insertable catheter is used in medical procedures to treat various conditions by ablating or destroying tissue. In this article, we will explore the details of HCPCS code C1886, 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 C1886?

HCPCS code C1886 is used to identify an insertable catheter that is utilized for extravascular tissue ablation. This code is applicable to any modality used for the ablation procedure. It is important to note that this code specifically refers to the catheter itself and not the procedure or treatment being performed.

2. Official Description

The official description of HCPCS code C1886 is “Catheter, extravascular tissue ablation, any modality (insertable)”. The short description for this code is “Enteral supp not otherwise c”.

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by preparing the patient for the extravascular tissue ablation procedure.
2. Anesthesia may be administered to ensure the patient’s comfort during the procedure.
3. The insertable catheter, represented by HCPCS code C1886, is carefully inserted into the targeted area where tissue ablation is required.
4. The provider then activates the chosen modality to perform the tissue ablation, which may involve the use of heat, cold, radiofrequency, or other energy sources.
5. The catheter is carefully removed once the tissue ablation procedure is completed.
6. Post-procedure care and monitoring are provided to the patient to ensure their well-being.

4. When to use HCPCS code C1886

HCPCS code C1886 should be used when documenting and billing for the use of an insertable catheter in an extravascular tissue ablation procedure. It is important to ensure that the procedure performed aligns with the official description of the code and that the catheter is used for tissue ablation purposes.

5. Billing Guidelines and Documentation Requirements

When billing for HCPCS code C1886, healthcare providers need to ensure that the medical documentation clearly supports the use of an insertable catheter for extravascular tissue ablation. The documentation should include details such as the specific modality used, the targeted area for tissue ablation, and any relevant clinical findings or indications for the procedure.

6. Historical Information and Code Maintenance

HCPCS code C1886 was added to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System on January 01, 1985. It has an effective date of January 01, 1996. As indicated by the action code N, no maintenance actions have been taken for this code. This means that there have been no updates or revisions to the code since its addition.

7. Medicare and Insurance Coverage

HCPCS code C1886 is covered by Medicare and other insurance carriers. The pricing indicator code 57 indicates that the code is priced by other carriers using their own methodology. The multiple pricing indicator code A signifies that the code is not applicable for pricing under multiple methodologies.

8. Examples

Here are five examples of scenarios where HCPCS code C1886 should be billed:

1. A patient undergoes extravascular tissue ablation using an insertable catheter with radiofrequency energy to treat a liver tumor.
2. An insertable catheter is utilized for tissue ablation with cryotherapy to treat a renal mass in a patient.
3. A provider performs extravascular tissue ablation using an insertable catheter with laser energy to treat a benign skin lesion.
4. An insertable catheter is used for tissue ablation with microwave energy to treat a lung tumor in a patient.
5. A provider performs extravascular tissue ablation using an insertable catheter with high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) to treat uterine fibroids.