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Anesthesia Coding Alert

You Be The Coder:

Know Options for RF of Varicose Veins

Published on Thu May 13, 2004

Question: What is the correct code for radiofrequency ablation of varicose veins in the lower extremity?

Oklahoma Subscriber Answer: CPT does not have a specific code for this procedure, which means you will have to weigh your options. Some coders recommend 37204 (Transcatheter occlusion or embolization [e.g., for tumor destruction, to achieve hemostasis, to occlude a vascular malformation], percutaneous, any method, non-central nervous system, non-head or neck), which crosses to anesthesia code 01844 (Anesthesia for vascular shunt, or shunt revision, any type [e.g., dialysis]) and alternative code 01916 (Anesthesia for diagnostic arteriography/venography).

Other coders opt for 37799 (Unlisted procedure,  vascular surgery) because the other codes report more invasive procedures than radiofrequency ablation of varicose veins. This crosses to anesthesia code 01520 (Anesthesia for procedures on veins of lower leg; not otherwise specified).
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