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BETA v.3.0

2025 CPT code 36215

Selective catheter placement, arterial system; each first order thoracic or brachiocephalic branch, within a vascular family.

Selective vascular catheterization should be coded to include introduction and all lesser-order selective catheterizations used in the approach. For example, selective right middle cerebral artery catheterization includes the introduction and placement catheterization of the right common and internal carotid arteries.  Additional first-order or higher catheterizations in vascular families supplied by a first-order vessel different from a previously selected and coded family should be separately coded.

Modifiers 22 (Increased Procedural Services), 51 (Multiple Procedures), 52 (Reduced Services), 53 (Discontinued Procedure), 59 (Distinct Procedural Service), 73, 74, 76, 77, 78, and 79 may be applicable depending on specific circumstances. RT and LT may be used to identify which side the procedure was performed.

In simple words: This procedure involves inserting a thin tube (catheter) into an artery in the chest or neck to examine blood vessels using X-rays.

The provider advances a catheter into each first order thoracic or brachiocephalic branch within a vascular family, typically to perform angiography of these arteries.

Example 1: A patient presents with symptoms of a stroke. A selective catheterization of the brachiocephalic artery is performed to assess blood flow to the brain and identify any blockages., A patient with chest pain undergoes selective catheterization of the thoracic aorta to evaluate for aortic dissection or aneurysm., A patient with suspected peripheral artery disease undergoes selective catheterization of the first order thoracic or brachiocephalic branches to assess blood flow to the arms and head.

Documentation should include the reason for the procedure, the specific arteries catheterized, the type of imaging performed, any complications encountered, and the results of the procedure.

** For catheter placement for coronary angiography, see 93454-93461. For radiological supervision and interpretation, see Radiology section (75600-75970).

  • Specialties:Interventional Radiology, Cardiology, Vascular Surgery
  • Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center
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