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The CPT® Code 61710 refers to a surgical procedure aimed at addressing conditions such as intracranial aneurysms, vascular malformations, or carotid-cavernous fistulas through intra-arterial embolization, injection procedures, or the use of balloon catheters. An intracranial aneurysm, also known as a cerebral or intracerebral aneurysm, is characterized by a weakened segment of a blood vessel that bulges and fills with blood. This condition can exert pressure on adjacent brain structures, potentially leading to pain and neurological deficits. Furthermore, there is a risk of rupture, which can result in a life-threatening intracranial hemorrhage. Intracranial aneurysms can be either congenital, arising from birth, or acquired due to various factors over time. A vascular malformation encompasses a range of abnormalities affecting blood vessels, which can disrupt normal blood flow and lead to various complications. A carotid-cavernous fistula is a specific type of vascular malformation that represents an abnormal connection between the carotid artery—either external or internal—and the venous cavernous sinus, located behind the eyes. The procedure involves the insertion of a catheter through the skin into an access artery, which is then navigated to the carotid artery supplying the affected area. A microcatheter is subsequently advanced to the site of the aneurysm, malformation, or fistula. During the procedure, one or more coils or a balloon catheter with detachable balloons are introduced via the microcatheter. The deployment of the coil or balloon effectively occludes the aneurysm, malformation, or fistula, thereby interrupting blood flow. In the case of coils, the formation of blood clots around the coils further aids in blocking blood flow. Alternatively, an injection procedure may be utilized to achieve the same goal. Throughout the process, angiograms are performed to confirm the correct placement of the devices. Once the targeted area has been successfully occluded or the coils are securely in place, the catheter is removed, completing the procedure.
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The procedure described by CPT® Code 61710 is indicated for the following conditions:
The procedure involves several critical steps to ensure the successful occlusion of the aneurysm, vascular malformation, or carotid-cavernous fistula:
After the completion of the procedure, patients are typically monitored for any immediate complications or adverse effects. Recovery may involve observation in a healthcare setting to ensure that there are no signs of bleeding or other complications. Patients may experience some discomfort at the catheter insertion site, which should be managed appropriately. Follow-up imaging studies may be required to assess the long-term success of the occlusion and to monitor for any potential recurrence of the aneurysm or malformation. It is essential for patients to adhere to any post-procedure instructions provided by their healthcare provider to ensure optimal recovery and outcomes.
| Short Descr | REVISE CIRCULATION TO HEAD | Medium Descr | ARYSM VASC MALFRMJ IA EMBOLIZATION | Long Descr | Surgery of aneurysm, vascular malformation or carotid-cavernous fistula; by intra-arterial embolization, injection procedure, or balloon catheter | Status Code | Active Code | Global Days | 090 - Major Surgery | 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) | 0 - 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 | Inpatient Procedures, not paid under OPPS | Type of Service (TOS) | 2 - Surgery | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | P1G - Major procedure - Other | MUE | 1 | CCS Clinical Classification | 59 - Other OR procedures on vessels of head and neck |
This is a primary code that can be used with these additional add-on codes.
| 69990 | Addon Code MPFS Status: Restricted APC N ASC N1 PUB 100 CPT Assistant Article 1Microsurgical techniques, requiring use of operating microscope (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure) |
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| Pre-1990 | Added | Code added. |