2025 CPT code 75809

Radiological supervision and interpretation of shuntogram for investigation of a previously placed indwelling nonvascular shunt or infusion pump.

Do not report this code with interventional procedures where venography is an inherent part of the procedure. It can be reported separately only if a full diagnostic study is performed prior to intervention, or if a significant change in patient condition or inadequate visualization necessitates additional venographic evaluation.

Modifiers 26 (professional component) and TC (technical component) may be applied.Other modifiers like 52 (reduced services) may also be applicable in certain situations.

Medical necessity must be established by documenting the clinical indication for the procedure (e.g., suspected shunt malfunction, signs of infection).

The radiologist is responsible for supervising the imaging procedure, interpreting the images, and providing a report.

IMPORTANT For the injection procedure, use 49427 or 61070.

In simple words: This procedure uses X-rays to check if a shunt placed in the body to drain fluid is working correctly. A special dye is injected into the shunt, and X-ray pictures are taken to see how the dye flows. This helps doctors make sure the shunt is draining fluid properly.

This code describes a radiological procedure involving the supervision and interpretation of images obtained after injecting contrast into a previously placed indwelling nonvascular shunt (e.g., LeVeen shunt, ventriculoperitoneal shunt) or an indwelling infusion pump reservoir. The purpose is to evaluate the shunt's function and patency by observing the flow of contrast material.The injection procedure itself is reported separately (e.g., 49427, 61070).

Example 1: A patient with a ventriculoperitoneal shunt for hydrocephalus presents with symptoms suggesting shunt malfunction. A shuntogram with code 75809 is performed to assess shunt patency., A patient with a LeVeen shunt for ascites experiences increased abdominal distension.A shuntogram with code 75809 is done to evaluate shunt function., A patient with an indwelling infusion pump for chemotherapy develops a swelling around the pump site. A shuntogram with code 75809 is performed to evaluate the pump's reservoir and catheter patency.

Documentation should include the reason for the shuntogram, details of the shunt or pump being investigated, the results of the imaging, and the radiologist's interpretation.

** Always check current coding guidelines and payer policies for the latest information.

  • Specialties:Radiology, Neurosurgery (for VP shunts), and other specialties managing patients with shunts or infusion pumps.
  • Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center, and other facilities equipped for radiological procedures.
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