Wiki Saphenous Vein for CABG

[dhuston]

Hi,

I see a note in CPT before the 33510-516 and 33517-530 codes that the procurement of the saphenous vein graft is included. I also see CPT 33508 for endoscopic harvest of the saphenous vein for CABG. Can anyone explain what the note is referring to? Is open harvest included in CABG but endoscopic harvest is not?

Thanks for your help!

Diane Huston, CPC

 

[mcwann]

You are interpreting that correctly. An open harvest of the saphenous vein is included; however, if the saphenous vein is harvested using an endoscopic technique then 33508 may also be billed. (See also 35600 for a radial artery harvest. It is not done very often, but you should also be aware of that code.)

Michele

 

[dhuston]

Thanks for confirming!

Diane