Coding: Prepare For New Transcatheter Extracranial Placement Codes

Why This Topic Matters

New CPT updates can change how procedures are reported and billed across multiple specialties. Understanding which services are affected helps coding teams prepare for annual code-set changes and review how new temporary codes interact with existing CPT reporting.

Article Sections

1. Introduction and upcoming CPT updates

   Provides context for the 2005 code cycle and the release of new temporary CPT Category III codes. It also notes that additional related code changes are expected.

2. Transcatheter extracranial vertebral or carotid artery stenting

   Covers new temporary codes in the vascular/interventional arena for extracranial vessel stent placement. The section also references replacement activity and the anticipated transition to future code changes.

3. Cerebral thermal perfusion probe placement

   Describes a newly released temporary code for implantation and securing of a probe used to measure cerebral tissue perfusion.

4. Endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm involving visceral vessels

   Summarizes temporary codes related to fenestrated modular prosthesis procedures and visceral extension prostheses for complex abdominal aortic repair.

5. Stereotactic body radiation therapy

   Reviews temporary codes for radiation treatment delivery and treatment management, along with references to existing CPT radiation therapy ranges that are not to be reported together.

6. Temporary prostatic urethral stent

   Notes a temporary code for placement of a prostatic urethral stent within the urology setting.

7. Heart transplant rejection breath test

   Covers a temporary code for a diagnostic breath test associated with transplant rejection assessment.

8. Left ventricular filling pressure measurement

   Describes a temporary code for indirect measurement of left ventricular filling pressure using computerized calibration methods.

9. Tongue base radiofrequency tissue reduction

   Includes a temporary code for submucosal radiofrequency tissue volume reduction of the tongue base for sleep-disordered breathing treatment.