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Official Description

Transluminal balloon angioplasty, percutaneous; venous

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

Transluminal balloon angioplasty, also known as transluminal balloon venoplasty, is a minimally invasive procedure aimed at treating occlusions in veins. This technique involves the use of a balloon catheter to open narrowed or blocked veins, thereby restoring normal blood flow. The procedure begins with the preparation of the skin over the access vein, followed by the puncture of the vein with a needle to facilitate access. A sheath is then placed to allow for the introduction of other instruments. A guidewire is inserted and navigated through the access vein into the occluded segment of the vein. Subsequently, a catheter equipped with a balloon tip is advanced over the guidewire to the site of the blockage. Once positioned, the balloon is inflated, which compresses the plaque against the walls of the vessel, effectively widening the vein. This inflation may be repeated multiple times to achieve optimal results. After the angioplasty, the catheter is exchanged for a guidewire, and a venography catheter is introduced to assess the success of the procedure. A contrast agent is injected to perform a completion venogram, ensuring that the vein is patent and that blood can flow freely. Finally, the venography catheter is removed, and pressure is applied to the puncture site to prevent bleeding, followed by the application of a pressure dressing to secure the area.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure of transluminal balloon angioplasty is indicated for various conditions related to venous occlusions. These indications may include:

  • Venous Obstruction The procedure is performed to alleviate blockages in veins that may be caused by thrombosis or other pathological conditions.
  • Chronic Venous Insufficiency It is indicated for patients suffering from chronic venous insufficiency, where the veins cannot pump enough blood back to the heart.
  • Varicose Veins The procedure may be utilized to treat symptomatic varicose veins that are causing discomfort or complications.

2. Procedure

The transluminal balloon angioplasty procedure involves several critical steps to ensure successful treatment of venous occlusions. These steps include:

  • Preparation of the Access Site The skin over the access vein is thoroughly cleaned and prepped to minimize the risk of infection. This step is crucial for maintaining a sterile environment during the procedure.
  • Puncture of the Vein A needle is used to puncture the vein, allowing for direct access. This step is performed with precision to ensure that the vein is accessed correctly without causing unnecessary trauma.
  • Placement of the Sheath A sheath is inserted into the punctured vein. This sheath serves as a conduit for the introduction of other instruments, facilitating the subsequent steps of the procedure.
  • Insertion of the Guidewire A guidewire is carefully inserted through the sheath and advanced into the occluded vein. This guidewire is essential for navigating the catheter to the site of the blockage.
  • Advancement of the Balloon Catheter A catheter with a balloon tip is advanced over the guidewire to the location of the occlusion. This step requires careful maneuvering to ensure that the catheter reaches the targeted area.
  • Inflation of the Balloon Once the balloon is positioned at the site of the blockage, it is inflated. This inflation compresses the plaque against the vessel wall, widening the vein and restoring blood flow. The balloon may be inflated multiple times to achieve the desired dilation.
  • Exchange of the Catheter for a Guidewire After the angioplasty is completed, the angioplasty catheter is exchanged for a guidewire, which remains in place for the next step.
  • Advancement of the Venography Catheter A venography catheter is then advanced over the guidewire to assess the success of the procedure. This catheter is crucial for performing the venogram.
  • Completion Venogram Contrast material is injected through the venography catheter to perform a completion venogram. This imaging step is essential to confirm that the vein is patent and that blood flow has been restored.
  • Withdrawal of the Venography Catheter After the completion venogram is performed, the venography catheter is withdrawn from the vein.
  • Control of Bleeding Pressure is applied to the puncture site to control any bleeding that may occur as a result of the procedure. This step is vital for ensuring patient safety and minimizing complications.
  • Application of Pressure Dressing Finally, a pressure dressing is applied to the puncture site to provide support and further control bleeding, ensuring that the site remains stable during the recovery process.

3. Post-Procedure

After the transluminal balloon angioplasty procedure, patients are typically monitored for any immediate complications. It is essential to observe the puncture site for signs of bleeding or infection. Patients may be advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a specified period to promote healing. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to assess the success of the procedure and to monitor the patient's recovery. Additionally, patients may receive instructions regarding any medications prescribed to prevent blood clots or manage pain. Overall, the post-procedure care is crucial for ensuring optimal recovery and the long-term success of the angioplasty.

Short Descr REPAIR VENOUS BLOCKAGE
Medium Descr TRLUML BALLOON ANGIOPLASTY PERCUTANEOUS VENOUS
Long Descr Transluminal balloon angioplasty, percutaneous; venous
Status Code Active Code
Global Days 000 - Endoscopic or Minor Procedure
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 2 - Standard payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 1 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures applies.
Physician Supervisions 9 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 1 - Statutory 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 Hospital Part B services paid through a comprehensive APC
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P2F - Major procedure, cardiovascular-Other
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 61 - Other OR procedures on vessels other than head and neck
Date
Action
Notes
2017-01-01 Changed Moderate (Conscious) Sedation flag removed. See new Moderate Sedation category.
2016-12-31 Deleted Code deleted. See 36902, 36905, 36907, 37246, 37247, 37248, 37249.
1992-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 1992.
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