Question:
How do I report IVC filter insertion/removal at the same session after mechanical thrombectomy?
Answer:
There are two possible scenarios where an IVC filter would be placed and immediately removed: 1) a problem with placement, unsuccessful and repeated, and 2) filter placed for temporary protection. In cases where a filter is placed and immediately removed (and likely put in again) because of a problem with placement (e.g., gonadal vein, too low), only a single code for insertion (37191) should be reported since it is a single procedure that has to be redone for technical reasons. If two filters are placed in the same IVC, this is again one code (37191) since the first filter was not fully functional for some reason. A filter placed for temporary protection, in which a separate procedure is performed and the filter is removed after having served its role, may be reported as an insertion (37191) and a retrieval (37193) since they are both done for clinically appropriate reason.
