November 15, 2018

Question:
What’s not included in the diagnostic cervico-cerebral imaging codes and can be reported separately?

Answer:
The diagnostic cervicocerebral imaging codes do not include:

• Interventional procedures such as angioplasty or embolization,
• Endovascular stent placement
• Ultrasound guidance for vascular access, e.g., 76937 with 36221-36228
• Selective arterial catheterization outside the carotid and vertebral arteries and branches, if warranted
• 3-D rendering, e.g., 76376 or 76377
• Moderate sedation (99151-99157).

Do you have additional questions about neuroendovascular coding?  We are happy to provide coding/documentation education to your group on this subject.

*This response is based on the best information available as of 11/15/18.