Coding Ahead
CasePilot
Medical Coding Assistant
Case2Code
Search and Code Lookup Tool
CareerCenter
Medical Coding Job Board
Log in Register free account

Need help choosing the right code?

Ask CasePilot about procedures, modifiers, bundling, and coding guidance.

Try CasePilot
Code deleted, see 37236, 37239

Official Description

Transcatheter placement of an intravascular stent(s) (except coronary, carotid, vertebral, iliac, and lower extremity arteries), percutaneous; initial vessel

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

An intravascular stent is a medical device designed to be placed within a blood vessel to maintain its patency, particularly in cases where the vessel has become narrowed or blocked due to stenosis or occlusion. The procedure involves the use of a catheter, which is a thin, flexible tube that is inserted into the vascular system through a small incision. This catheter is navigated to the specific site within the vessel that requires treatment. Once the catheter reaches the targeted area, the stent is introduced through it and positioned appropriately. The stent is then expanded and secured in place, which helps to restore and enhance blood flow through the affected vessel. It is important to note that this procedure is performed on vessels other than the coronary arteries, carotid arteries, vertebral arteries, iliac arteries, and lower extremity arteries. The placement of the stent is typically guided by imaging techniques such as fluoroscopy or ultrasound, which may be reported separately. This code is specifically used for the initial vessel treated during the procedure, and while only one operative site is addressed, it is possible for multiple methods and vessels to be involved in the overall treatment plan.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The transcatheter placement of an intravascular stent is indicated for patients presenting with specific vascular conditions that necessitate the restoration of blood flow. The following are the explicitly provided indications for this procedure:

  • Stenosis - A narrowing of the blood vessel that restricts blood flow.
  • Occlusion - A blockage in the blood vessel that prevents blood from passing through.

2. Procedure

The procedure for the transcatheter placement of an intravascular stent involves several critical steps, each essential for the successful placement of the stent. The following procedural steps are outlined:

  • Step 1: Catheter Insertion - The procedure begins with the insertion of a catheter into the vascular system. This is typically done through a small incision in the skin, allowing access to a peripheral artery or vein. The choice of access site depends on the location of the stenosis or occlusion.
  • Step 2: Navigation to the Target Site - Once the catheter is in place, it is carefully advanced through the vascular system to reach the specific site of the stenosis or occlusion. This navigation may be guided by imaging techniques such as fluoroscopy or ultrasound to ensure accurate placement.
  • Step 3: Stent Deployment - After reaching the target site, the stent is introduced through the catheter. The stent is typically compressed and mounted on a delivery system that allows it to be expanded once in position. The stent is then deployed and expanded to fit snugly against the walls of the vessel, effectively holding it open.
  • Step 4: Confirmation of Placement - Following the deployment of the stent, imaging may be used again to confirm that the stent is correctly positioned and that blood flow has been restored. This step is crucial to ensure the effectiveness of the procedure.

3. Post-Procedure

After the transcatheter placement of the intravascular stent, patients may require monitoring for any immediate complications. Post-procedure care typically includes observation for signs of bleeding or vascular complications at the access site. Patients may also be prescribed antiplatelet medications to prevent thrombosis at the stent site. The expected recovery period can vary based on the individual patient's health status and the complexity of the procedure, but many patients can resume normal activities within a short time frame. Follow-up appointments are essential to assess the stent's function and the overall vascular health of the patient.

Short Descr TRANSCATH IV STENT PERCUT
Medium Descr TCAT PLMT IV STENT PERCUTANEOUS 1ST VESSEL
Long Descr Transcatheter placement of an intravascular stent(s) (except coronary, carotid, vertebral, iliac, and lower extremity arteries), percutaneous; initial vessel
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) 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - 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) none
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 61 - Other OR procedures on vessels other than head and neck
Date
Action
Notes
2014-01-01 Deleted Code deleted, see 37236, 37239
2013-01-01 Changed Guideline information changed. Also, AMA corrections document revised spelling of the word 'transcatheter'.
2011-01-01 Changed Long description revised. Medium description changed. Short description changed. Guideline information changed.
2008-01-01 Changed Code description changed.
2005-01-01 Changed Code description changed.
1993-01-01 Added Code added.
Code
Description
Code
Description
Code
Description
CasePilot

Get instant expert-level medical coding assistance.

Ask about:
CPT Codes Guidelines Modifiers Crosswalks NCCI Edits Compliance Medicare Coverage
Example: "What is CPT code 99213?" or "Guidelines for E/M services"