AHA Coding Clinic® for ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS - 2015 Issue 4
Vascular Access Devices
Vascular access device is a rather generic term to describe sterile catheter systems used to access a vascular structure either an artery or a vein. Selection of the body part value for insertion of a vascular access device is based on the end placement of the device rather than the point of entry. Peripherally Inserted Catheter A peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) is inserted into a peripheral vein in the arm, such as the cephalic vein, basilic vein or brachial vein, and then advanced toward the heart through larger veins, until the tip rests in the distal superior vena...
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Article Overview
This article explains broad categories of vascular access devices, including peripheral and central lines and implanted access ports, and discusses how their placement is reflected in ICD-10-PCS. It also addresses imaging guidance references, device examples, and the distinction between device components for certain implantable systems. The content is aimed at coding professionals, clinical documentation teams, and others who need a general overview of vascular access device coding topics.
Why This Topic Matters
Vascular access procedures are common in many care settings, and accurate documentation and code selection depend on understanding device type, placement, and related guidance concepts. This article helps readers determine whether the full discussion applies to their coding or documentation needs.
Article Sections
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Peripherally Inserted Catheter
Introduces peripherally inserted catheter devices and describes the general clinical context in which they are used. Also references how placement is represented in the coding framework discussed in the article.
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Central Venous Catheter
Covers central venous catheter devices, typical venous access sites, and general procedural characteristics. Includes examples of device types and procedural settings.
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Central Venous Catheter Placement with Guidance
Summarizes the article’s discussion of imaging guidance associated with central venous catheter placement. Mentions the coding framework used to reference guidance in the inpatient setting.
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Totally Implantable Central Venous Access Device
Describes implantable port systems and their component-based structure. Covers the general placement context and references the coding framework used for these devices.
What You Will Learn
- Common categories of vascular access devices
- General placement concepts relevant to coding
- How the article frames device-component coding for implantable access systems
- The role of imaging guidance in the article’s discussion of catheter placement
- Typical clinical contexts in which vascular access devices are used
Who Should Read This
- Coding professionals
- Clinical documentation specialists
- Health information management staff
- Hospital charge capture teams
- Medical record reviewers
Codes Discussed
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