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Official Description

Injection procedure for corpora cavernosography

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

Cavernosography is a specialized diagnostic procedure that involves the use of imaging techniques to evaluate the anatomy and function of the corpora cavernosa, which are two cylindrical structures located within the penis that play a crucial role in erectile function. The procedure entails the injection of a contrast medium directly into the corpora cavernosa, allowing for detailed radiographic examination of both the corpora cavernosa and the associated venous drainage structures. This is achieved by inserting a needle, typically ranging from 19 to 22 gauge, into the tissue of the corpora cavernosa, specifically at the dorsal lateral aspect near the base of the glans penis. Once the contrast medium is injected, radiographic images are captured from two distinct angles—anterior/posterior and lateral/oblique—to visualize the flow of the contrast through the vascular channels. The procedure is designed to assess the integrity and functionality of the corpora cavernosa and the veins that facilitate blood drainage, which is essential for diagnosing various erectile dysfunction conditions. It is important to note that this CPT® code specifically pertains to the injection procedure itself, while the supervision and interpretation of the radiographic images are billed separately by the radiologist.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The cavernosography procedure is indicated for the evaluation of various conditions related to erectile dysfunction and penile vascular health. The following are specific indications for performing this procedure:

  • Erectile Dysfunction This procedure is often indicated in patients experiencing erectile dysfunction, particularly when there is a suspicion of vascular causes.
  • Assessment of Penile Vascular Anatomy Cavernosography is utilized to assess the vascular anatomy of the penis, including the corpora cavernosa and the associated venous drainage.
  • Investigation of Penile Trauma In cases of penile trauma, cavernosography can help evaluate potential vascular injuries or abnormalities.
  • Preoperative Evaluation This procedure may be performed as part of the preoperative assessment for penile surgeries, particularly those addressing erectile dysfunction.

2. Procedure

The cavernosography procedure involves several key steps to ensure accurate imaging and assessment of the corpora cavernosa. The following outlines the procedural steps:

  • Step 1: Preparation The patient is positioned comfortably, and the area around the penis is cleaned and sterilized to minimize the risk of infection. Local anesthesia may be administered to reduce discomfort during the procedure.
  • Step 2: Needle Insertion A 19-22 gauge needle is carefully inserted into the tissue of the corpora cavernosa. The insertion site is typically located on the dorsal lateral aspect of the penis, proximal to the glans. This precise location is chosen to facilitate optimal access to the corpora cavernosa.
  • Step 3: Injection of Contrast Medium Once the needle is in place, a contrast medium is injected into the corpora cavernosa. This contrast agent is essential for enhancing the visibility of the vascular structures during imaging.
  • Step 4: Radiographic Imaging Immediately following the injection, radiographic images are captured from two angles: anterior/posterior and lateral/oblique. These images allow for a comprehensive view of the flow of the contrast medium through the corpora cavernosa and the drainage veins.
  • Step 5: Observation of Contrast Flow Within less than a minute, the contrast medium should begin to flow through the channels connecting the two sides of the corpora cavernosa and subsequently drain into the deep dorsal or crural veins. This flow is critical for assessing the vascular integrity.
  • Step 6: Completion of the Procedure After the imaging is completed, the needle is carefully removed from the corpora cavernosa. Pressure is applied to the injection site to minimize bleeding and promote hemostasis.

3. Post-Procedure

After the cavernosography procedure, patients are typically monitored for a short period to ensure there are no immediate complications, such as bleeding or adverse reactions to the contrast medium. It is common for patients to experience some discomfort or swelling at the injection site, which usually resolves quickly. Patients may be advised to avoid strenuous activities or sexual intercourse for a specified period following the procedure to allow for proper healing. Any significant or prolonged symptoms should be reported to a healthcare provider for further evaluation. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss the results of the imaging and any necessary treatment options based on the findings.

Short Descr NJX CORPORA CAVERNOSOGRAPY
Medium Descr INJECTION PROCEDURE FOR CORPORA CAVERNOSOGRAPY
Long Descr Injection procedure for corpora cavernosography
Status Code Active Code
Global Days 000 - Endoscopic or Minor Procedure
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 2 - Standard payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 1 - Statutory payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Items and Services Packaged into APC Rates
ASC Payment Indicator Packaged service/item; no separate payment made.
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) I1F - Standard imaging - other
MUE 1
CCS Clinical Classification 226 - Other diagnostic radiology and related techniques
51 Multiple procedures: when multiple procedures, other than e/m services, physical medicine and rehabilitation services or provision of supplies (eg, vaccines), are performed at the same session by the same individual, the primary procedure or service may be reported as listed. the additional procedure(s) or service(s) may be identified by appending modifier 51 to the additional procedure or service code(s). note: this modifier should not be appended to designated "add-on" codes (see appendix d).
59 Distinct procedural service: under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was distinct or independent from other non-e/m services performed on the same day. modifier 59 is used to identify procedures/services, other than e/m services, that are not normally reported together, but are appropriate under the circumstances. documentation must support a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of injury in extensive injuries) not ordinarily encountered or performed on the same day by the same individual. however, when another already established modifier is appropriate it should be used rather than modifier 59. only if no more descriptive modifier is available, and the use of modifier 59 best explains the circumstances, should modifier 59 be used. note: modifier 59 should not be appended to an e/m service. to report a separate and distinct e/m service with a non-e/m service performed on the same date, see modifier 25.
GC This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician
Date
Action
Notes
2025-01-01 Changed Short and Medium Descriptions changed.
2011-01-01 Changed Medium description changed.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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