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Telangiectasia, commonly known as spider veins, are small, dilated blood vessels that appear as red, blue, or purple lines on the skin, often resembling a spider's web. These veins are typically found on the face and legs and can be a cosmetic concern for many individuals. The condition arises from various factors, including genetics, sun exposure, and hormonal changes. The treatment for spider veins involves the use of sclerosing solutions, which are injected directly into the affected veins. This procedure aims to cause inflammation in the vein walls, leading to their closure and eventual disappearance as the body reabsorbs the treated tissue. The procedure can involve multiple injections, with the physician performing anywhere from 5 to 40 injections in a single session, depending on the extent of the condition. Proper documentation of the treatment sites may include photographs to assess the severity and distribution of the spider veins. It is important to note that CPT® Code 36469 specifically pertains to the treatment of spider veins located on the face, while a different code, 36468, is designated for spider veins on the limbs or trunk.
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The procedure involving the injection of sclerosing solutions for spider veins (telangiectasia) is indicated for the following conditions:
The procedure for treating spider veins with sclerosing solutions involves several key steps that ensure effective treatment and patient safety.
After the procedure, patients may experience some swelling or bruising at the injection sites, which is typically temporary. It is important for patients to follow any post-procedure care instructions provided by the physician, which may include avoiding strenuous activities and sun exposure for a specified period. The treated spider veins will gradually become less noticeable as the body reabsorbs the tissue over time. Follow-up appointments may be necessary to assess the results and determine if additional treatments are required.
| Short Descr | INJECTION(S) SPIDER VEINS | Medium Descr | 1/MLT NJXS SCLRSG SLNS SPIDER VEINS FACE | Long Descr | Single or multiple injections of sclerosing solutions, spider veins (telangiectasia); face | Status Code | Restricted Coverage | 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) | 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply. | Physician Supervisions | 9 - 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 | Procedure or Service, Multiple Reduction Applies | Type of Service (TOS) | 2 - Surgery | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | P6A - Minor procedures - skin | MUE | Not applicable/unspecified. | CCS Clinical Classification | 63 - Other non-OR therapeutic cardiovascular procedures |
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| 2015-01-01 | Deleted | Code deleted |
| 2011-01-01 | Changed | Short description changed. |
| 1990-01-01 | Added | First appearance in code book in 1990. |
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