What codes are to be used for laser or radiofrequency ablation of varicose veins?
Patients must first qualify for coverage by satisfying the criteria outlined in the following Local Coverage Decisions and documented in the patients’ medical record. For services prior to 01.01.05, the unlisted CPT code 37799 should be used. Providers may also bill CPT code 76986* for intraoperative ultrasound. Claim reviews have revealed providers incorrectly billing CPT codes 36011(select catheterization of first order vein) and 75894(embolization radiologic supervision and interpretation) also being billed although the medical records do not support these services. There is neither introduction of a catheter into a first order vein as the code 36011 describes, nor is there embolization of vein being performed as represented by CPT code 75894. For any remaining 2004 endoluminal ablation of varicose veins claims, providers should bill the unlisted code as advised. For any charges of CPT codes 36011 or 75894 billed in error along with treatment of varicose veins, providers should refu
