tci General Surgery Coding Alert - 2010 Issue 5

Reader Question: Look to Access Point for CVA

Question: If the surgeon's documentation refers to a "PICC" line terminating in the subclavian vein, should I code it as a centrally inserted catheter because the subclavian is central? South Dakota SubscriberAnswer: No, you should not use a code for a centrally inserted catheter for this service. "Inserted" refers to the access point (where the catheter enters the vascular system) rather than the termination point. If the documentation is correct that the procedure involved a peripherally inserted central venous catheter (PICC) line, you should see access from a vein such as the basilic or cephalic vein, according to CPT...

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