Question:

If the intent of the procedure is to place a PICC line but this cannot be done, and the catheter is advanced only into a peripheral vein can this be coded as a PICC with a -52 modifier?

Answer:

No, if the tip of the catheter terminates outside one of the six locations (subclavian vein, innominate/brachiocephalic vein, superior vena cava, right atrium/ right heart, iliac vein, inferior vena cava) defining a central venous access catheter or device it does not qualify as a central venous catheter and may not be reported as a PICC. Instead, this should be reported with a venipuncture code (36400, 36406, 36410).

This question was answered in our Interventional Radiology Coder. For more hot topics relating to interventional radiology services, please visit our store or call us at 1.800.252.1578, ext. 2.

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn

CPT® copyright 2023 American Medical Association (AMA). All rights reserved.

Fee schedules, relative value units, conversion factors and/or related components are not assigned by the AMA, are not part of CPT, and the AMA is not recommending their use. The AMA does not directly or indirectly practice medicine or dispense medical services. The AMA assumes no liability for data contained or not contained herein.

CPT is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association.

Unlock 50% off all 2024 edition books when you order by July 5! Use the coupon code CO5024 at checkout to claim this offer!

CYBER WEEK IS HERE! Don’t miss your chance to get 20% off now until Dec. 2 with code CYBER24