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CPT®
75946

CPT® Code 75946
Deleted

Code deleted, to report see 37252, 37253

Official Description

Intravascular ultrasound (non-coronary vessel), radiological supervision and interpretation; each additional non-coronary vessel (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) is a diagnostic imaging technique that utilizes high-frequency sound waves to visualize the interior of blood vessels. This procedure is particularly useful for assessing non-coronary vessels, which are blood vessels outside of the heart's coronary arteries. During the IVUS procedure, a specialized ultrasound probe is carefully inserted into the blood vessel through a catheter. This allows for real-time imaging of the vessel's structure, helping to identify any abnormalities such as constrictions or blockages. The CPT® Code 75946 specifically refers to the radiological supervision and interpretation of intravascular ultrasound for each additional non-coronary vessel examined, following the primary procedure. It is important to note that this code is used in conjunction with CPT® Code 75945, which is designated for the first non-coronary vessel treated. The use of these codes ensures accurate billing and documentation for the services rendered during the ultrasound examination of additional vessels.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) procedure is indicated for various clinical scenarios involving non-coronary vessels. These indications may include:

  • Assessment of Vascular Abnormalities The procedure is performed to evaluate the presence of abnormalities such as stenosis (narrowing) or occlusions (blockages) in non-coronary blood vessels.
  • Guidance for Interventional Procedures IVUS is utilized to provide real-time imaging guidance during interventions aimed at treating vascular conditions, ensuring accurate placement of devices or stents.
  • Evaluation of Atherosclerotic Disease The procedure helps in assessing the extent and severity of atherosclerosis in peripheral arteries, which can impact treatment decisions.
  • Monitoring Post-Intervention IVUS is indicated for follow-up evaluations after vascular interventions to assess the success of the procedure and monitor for any complications.

2. Procedure

The intravascular ultrasound procedure involves several key steps, which are detailed as follows:

  • Step 1: Preparation The patient is prepared for the procedure, which may include administering local anesthesia and intravenous sedation to ensure comfort. The area where the catheter will be inserted is cleaned and sterilized to prevent infection.
  • Step 2: Catheter Insertion A catheter is carefully inserted into the blood vessel, typically through a small incision in the skin. The catheter is guided to the area of interest using fluoroscopic imaging for precise placement.
  • Step 3: Ultrasound Probe Deployment Once the catheter is in position, an ultrasound probe is advanced through the catheter into the non-coronary vessel. This probe emits high-frequency sound waves that create detailed images of the vessel's interior.
  • Step 4: Image Acquisition The ultrasound images are captured in real-time, allowing the physician to visualize the structure of the vessel and identify any abnormalities. The radiological supervision and interpretation of these images are critical for accurate diagnosis.
  • Step 5: Completion and Withdrawal After the imaging is complete, the ultrasound probe is withdrawn, and the catheter is carefully removed. The insertion site is then monitored for any signs of complications.

3. Post-Procedure

Following the intravascular ultrasound procedure, patients are typically monitored for a short period to ensure there are no immediate complications, such as bleeding or infection at the catheter insertion site. Depending on the patient's condition and the extent of the procedure, they may be advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a specified duration. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss the results of the ultrasound and any further treatment options if necessary. It is essential for healthcare providers to document the findings and any subsequent recommendations based on the ultrasound results to ensure continuity of care.
Short Descr INTRAVASCULAR US ADD-ON
Medium Descr IV ULTRASOUND RS&I EACH NON-CORONARY VESSEL
Long Descr Intravascular ultrasound (non-coronary vessel), radiological supervision and interpretation; each additional non-coronary vessel (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)
Status Code Active Code
Global Days ZZZ - Code Related to Another Service
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) 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 Items and Services Packaged into APC Rates
Type of Service (TOS) 6 - Therapeutic Radiology
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) I3F - Echography/ultrasonography - other
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 197 - Other diagnostic ultrasound
Date
Action
Notes
2016-01-01 Deleted Code deleted, to report see 37252, 37253
1997-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 1997.
Code
Description
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