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CPT®
75685

CPT® Code 75685
Deleted

Code deleted, see 36225, 36226

Official Description

Angiography, vertebral, cervical, and/or intracranial, radiological supervision and interpretation

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 75685 involves angiography of the vertebral arteries, which are located in the cervical region of the neck, as well as the intracranial arteries within the head. This diagnostic imaging technique is utilized to visualize the blood vessels in these areas to assess for any abnormalities or conditions affecting blood flow. During the procedure, a physician will insert a catheter into an artery, typically one that supplies blood to the vertebrae or the cervical region. Once the catheter is in place, a contrast dye is injected through it. This dye enhances the visibility of the arteries on X-ray images. As the dye circulates through the blood vessels, the physician captures a series of X-ray images, allowing for detailed examination of the vascular structures. This procedure is crucial for diagnosing various conditions, such as vascular malformations, blockages, or other pathologies that may affect the vertebral or intracranial arteries.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The angiography procedure described by CPT® Code 75685 is indicated for several specific clinical scenarios, including:

  • Assessment of Vascular Abnormalities This procedure is performed to evaluate potential vascular malformations or anomalies within the vertebral and intracranial arteries.
  • Investigation of Stroke Symptoms Angiography may be indicated in patients presenting with symptoms suggestive of a stroke, to identify any occlusions or blockages in the blood vessels.
  • Evaluation of Headaches In cases of unexplained or severe headaches, this imaging technique can help determine if there are underlying vascular issues contributing to the symptoms.
  • Preoperative Planning Angiography is often utilized to map out the vascular anatomy prior to surgical interventions involving the cervical or intracranial regions.

2. Procedure

The angiography procedure involves several critical steps to ensure accurate imaging and assessment of the vertebral and intracranial arteries:

  • Step 1: Catheter Insertion The procedure begins with the physician locating the appropriate access point, typically in the groin or arm, to insert a catheter into the arterial system. Using fluoroscopic guidance, the catheter is carefully navigated through the vascular system to reach the targeted arteries in the neck or head.
  • Step 2: Contrast Dye Injection Once the catheter is positioned correctly, a contrast dye is injected through the catheter into the artery. This dye is essential for enhancing the visibility of the blood vessels during imaging.
  • Step 3: Imaging Acquisition As the contrast dye flows through the arteries, the physician captures a series of X-ray images. These images are taken at specific intervals to track the distribution of the dye and to visualize the arterial structures in detail.
  • Step 4: Image Interpretation After the imaging is complete, the physician reviews the X-ray images to identify any abnormalities, such as blockages, aneurysms, or other vascular conditions. This interpretation is crucial for determining the appropriate clinical management for the patient.

3. Post-Procedure

Following the angiography procedure, patients are typically monitored for a short period to ensure there are no immediate complications, such as bleeding or allergic reactions to the contrast dye. It is common for patients to experience some discomfort at the catheter insertion site, which should resolve over time. Patients may be advised to hydrate adequately to help flush the contrast dye from their system. Additionally, specific follow-up instructions will be provided, which may include restrictions on physical activity and signs to watch for that could indicate complications. A follow-up appointment may be scheduled to discuss the results of the angiography and any further management that may be necessary based on the findings.
Short Descr ARTERY X-RAYS SPINE
Medium Descr ANGIOGRAPHY VERTEBRAL/CERVICAL/&/INTRACRAN RS&I
Long Descr Angiography, vertebral, cervical, and/or intracranial, radiological supervision and interpretation
Status Code Active Code
Global Days XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 1 - Diagnostic Tests for Radiology Services
Multiple Procedures (51) 0 - No payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 3 - The usual 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 Discontinued Code
Type of Service (TOS) 4 - Diagnostic Radiology
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) none
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 188 - Cerebral arteriogram
Date
Action
Notes
2013-01-01 Deleted Code deleted, see 36225, 36226
2011-01-01 Changed Short description changed.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
Code
Description
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