Question:
How would you code a procedure where the physician selectively catheterizes the internal carotid artery and performs intracranial carotid imaging, along with imaging of the arch and extracranial carotid arteries, and then selectively catheterizes the internal carotid artery on the opposite side with intracranial imaging?
Answer:
Assign code 36224 when the internal carotid artery is selectively catheterized and imaging of the intracranial carotid circulation is performed. This code includes imaging of the arch and extracranial carotid imaging if performed. Do not assign 36221, 36222, or 36223 with 36224. If bilateral internal carotid arteries are selected with intracranial imaging bilaterally, code 36224-50.