CPT® Code 37234

Add-On Code

Revascularization, endovascular, open or percutaneous, tibial/peroneal artery, unilateral, each additional vessel; with transluminal stent placement(s), includes angioplasty within the same vessel, when performed (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

The procedure described by CPT® Code 37234 involves the revascularization of an additional ipsilateral (same side) occluded or stenosed tibial or peroneal artery. This is achieved through endovascular techniques, which can be performed either openly or percutaneously. The primary goal of this procedure is to restore blood flow to the affected artery, which is crucial for maintaining proper circulation in the lower extremities. The physician utilizes various methods such as angioplasty, atherectomy, and/or the placement of a transluminal stent to achieve this goal. During the procedure, a catheter with a balloon tip is advanced over a guidewire to the site of the occluded artery. Once in position, the balloon is inflated to compress the plaque against the arterial wall, which may require multiple inflations to achieve optimal results. Alternatively, atherectomy may be performed, which involves using a specialized catheter that shaves plaque from the arterial wall. This plaque is then collected and removed upon completion of the procedure. Following these interventions, a completion angiography is conducted to ensure the artery is patent, and if necessary, a stent is deployed to maintain the artery's patency. This code is specifically used when stent placement is performed in conjunction with angioplasty, and it is important to note that it is billed in addition to the primary procedure code for the initial revascularization performed on the same side.