CPT® Code 36014

The CPT® Code 36014 refers to the procedure of selective catheter placement in either the left or right pulmonary artery. This procedure involves the introduction of a catheter into the vascular system, specifically targeting the pulmonary arteries, which are crucial for transporting blood from the heart to the lungs for oxygenation. The process begins with the insertion of a catheter into a vein, typically the right femoral vein, although alternative sites such as the left femoral vein or an upper extremity vein may also be utilized. A small incision is made at the chosen venous access point to facilitate the placement of an introducer sheath, which allows for the safe passage of a guidewire into the venous system. Once the guidewire is in place, it is navigated through the femoral and iliac veins into the inferior vena cava and subsequently into the right atrium of the heart. A pigtail catheter, which is designed with a tip that can be deflected, is then advanced over the guidewire into the right atrium. After the guidewire is removed, the catheter can either remain in the right atrium or be further advanced into the right ventricle and then into the main pulmonary artery. The key aspect of CPT® Code 36014 is the selective catheterization of the left or right pulmonary artery, which involves precise manipulation of the catheter from the right atrium into the desired pulmonary artery. This procedure is essential for various diagnostic and therapeutic interventions, including the administration of medications or radiopaque contrast agents as needed for imaging purposes.