CPT® Code 37216

Transcatheter placement of intravascular stent(s), cervical carotid artery, open or percutaneous, including angioplasty, when performed, and radiological supervision and interpretation; without distal embolic protection

The CPT® Code 37216 refers to the transcatheter placement of intravascular stent(s) specifically in the cervical carotid artery. This procedure can be performed using either an open or percutaneous approach, which involves the insertion of a stent to treat stenosis, or narrowing, of the artery. The procedure includes angioplasty if it is performed, as well as the necessary radiological supervision and interpretation. Notably, this code is utilized when the procedure is conducted without the use of distal embolic protection, which is a device designed to prevent debris from traveling downstream during the stenting process. The cervical carotid artery is a critical vessel that supplies blood to the brain, and addressing stenosis in this area is essential to prevent complications such as stroke. The procedure involves a series of steps that include catheterization, angiography, and the careful placement of the stent to ensure proper blood flow restoration while minimizing risks associated with the intervention.