CPT® Code 36247

Selective catheter placement, arterial system; initial third order or more selective abdominal, pelvic, or lower extremity artery branch, within a vascular family

A selective catheter placement procedure involves the introduction of a catheter into a specific artery within the abdominal, pelvic, or lower extremity regions of the arterial system. This procedure is categorized as an initial third order or more selective placement, indicating that the catheter is advanced into a branch of the artery that is further down the vascular hierarchy. The process typically begins with the insertion of a catheter through a small incision made over the chosen access point, which is most commonly the femoral artery, although access can also be achieved via an upper extremity artery. The use of a guidewire is essential in this procedure, as it facilitates the navigation of the catheter through the arterial system, allowing the physician to selectively advance the catheter into progressively higher order branches of the vascular family. The ultimate goal is to position the catheter in the highest order branch that requires evaluation, which may involve the use of radiopaque contrast media for imaging purposes. This procedure is critical for diagnostic and therapeutic interventions within the vascular system, enabling detailed examination and treatment of various conditions affecting the arteries in these regions.