2025 CPT code 36470
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Surgery - Surgical Procedures on the Cardiovascular System Surgery Feed
Injection of sclerosing solution into a single incompetent vein (excluding telangiectasia).
Modifiers may be applicable depending on the circumstances of the procedure.For example, modifier 51 (multiple procedures) might be used if other procedures are performed during the same session. Modifier 22 (increased procedural services) may be used if the procedure is more extensive than usual.Consult the appropriate modifier guidelines before applying any modifiers.
Medical necessity for sclerotherapy is established when the varicose vein or other vascular malformation is causing symptoms such as pain, swelling, or cosmetic concerns, or if there is a risk of complications such as thrombophlebitis.
The physician or qualified healthcare professional is responsible for patient preparation, injection of the sclerosing solution into the affected vein, applying pressure to the injection site to control bleeding, and providing post-procedure care instructions.
In simple words: The doctor injects a special solution into a varicose vein (or similar problem vein) to close it off.This makes the vein shrink and disappear.
This CPT code, 36470, represents the injection of a sclerosing solution into a single incompetent vein.This procedure is used to treat varicose veins and other vascular malformations, excluding spider veins (telangiectasia). The procedure involves injecting a sclerosing agent directly into the affected vein, causing the vein walls to collapse and seal, thus eliminating the vein. The procedure includes necessary local anesthesia, introduction of needle or catheter, injection of contrast media, and related pre- and post-injection care.
Example 1: A 45-year-old female presents with a single, large varicose vein on her left thigh causing pain and cosmetic concerns. The physician performs sclerotherapy using code 36470., A 60-year-old male patient presents with several small varicose veins clustered together on his right calf, but only one needs to be treated. The physician uses sclerotherapy (code 36470) to treat the single, symptomatic vein. , A 30-year-old female patient presents with a single, visible reticular vein (not a telangiectasia) on her left leg. The physician performs sclerotherapy to treat the single reticular vein.Code 36470 is used.
Pre-procedure documentation should include a complete medical history, physical examination findings, and imaging studies (if any) to confirm the location and extent of the affected vein(s). The type and amount of sclerosing solution used should be documented, along with the injection technique. Post-procedure documentation should include the patient's response to the procedure and any complications.
** This procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis.Patients should be advised of potential complications, such as bruising, swelling, and skin discoloration.
- Revenue Code: P6C (Medicare Fee Schedule: MINOR PROCEDURES - OTHER)
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Phlebology, Vascular Surgery, Dermatology
- Place of Service:Office, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center