CPT® Code 37212

Transcatheter therapy, venous infusion for thrombolysis, any method, including radiological supervision and interpretation, initial treatment day

Transcatheter therapy with venous infusion for thrombolysis involves the administration of a thrombolytic agent through a catheter to dissolve blood clots in veins, specifically targeting vessels that are not coronary or intracranial. This procedure is typically indicated for conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), where clots obstruct blood flow in the deep veins of the legs. The process begins with the puncture of the skin over the access artery, commonly the common femoral artery, although other access points such as the axillary or distal brachial arteries may also be utilized. Once access is achieved, a guidewire is inserted through the needle into the vessel, allowing for the advancement of an infusion catheter to the site of the clot. The catheter is then positioned securely across the thrombosis, enabling the infusion of the thrombolytic agent, which is administered over a period of time, often several hours, to effectively break down the clot and restore normal blood flow. This procedure is performed under radiological supervision, which includes imaging techniques such as venography or arteriography to monitor the effectiveness of the therapy and to assist in any necessary catheter repositioning or exchanges. It is important to note that this code is applicable for the initial treatment day only, and subsequent treatments may require additional coding considerations.