CPT® Code 75880

1. Indications

Venography of the orbital region is performed for several specific indications, which may include the following:

• Assessment of Venous Thrombosis This procedure is indicated for evaluating the presence of blood clots within the veins surrounding the eye, which can lead to serious complications if left untreated.
• Investigation of Vascular Malformations It is utilized to identify and characterize any abnormal vascular formations that may be affecting the ocular region.
• Evaluation of Venous Obstruction The procedure helps in diagnosing any obstructions in the venous drainage system of the eye, which can impact vision and overall ocular health.
• Preoperative Planning Venography may be indicated as part of the preoperative assessment for surgical procedures involving the eye or surrounding structures, ensuring that the vascular anatomy is well understood.

2. Procedure

The venography procedure involves several critical steps to ensure accurate imaging and assessment of the orbital veins. The following outlines the procedural steps:

• Step 1: Catheter Insertion The physician begins by preparing the patient and the necessary equipment. A catheter is carefully inserted into the vein that drains blood from the eye. This step requires precision to ensure that the catheter is placed correctly within the vascular system.
• Step 2: Dye Injection Once the catheter is in place, a contrast dye is injected through the catheter into the veins. This dye is essential for enhancing the visibility of the venous structures during imaging, allowing for clearer delineation of the veins on the X-ray images.
• Step 3: Imaging Acquisition After the dye injection, the physician takes X-ray images of the orbital region. These images capture the flow of the contrast dye through the veins, providing valuable information about the venous anatomy and any potential abnormalities.
• Step 4: Interpretation Following the imaging, the physician conducts a thorough interpretation of the X-ray images. This step is crucial for diagnosing any venous conditions, as it allows the physician to assess the presence of thrombosis, obstructions, or other vascular issues.

3. Post-Procedure

After the venography procedure, patients may be monitored for any immediate complications related to the catheter insertion or dye injection. It is important to observe for signs of allergic reactions to the contrast dye or any vascular complications. Patients are typically advised to rest and may be given specific instructions regarding activity levels following the procedure. The physician will discuss the results of the venography with the patient, outlining any necessary follow-up actions or treatments based on the findings from the imaging study.