CPT® Code 75746

Pulmonary angiography, as described by CPT® Code 75746, is a specialized vascular imaging procedure aimed at assessing blood flow within the lungs. This technique is crucial for visualizing the condition of the pulmonary vessels, allowing healthcare professionals to identify potential issues such as vessel wall integrity, narrowing (stenosis), or blockages (embolism). The procedure is particularly valuable in diagnosing and managing various pulmonary conditions, including embolisms, arteriovenous malformations, pseudoaneurysms, and cavitary or inflammatory lung lesions. Additionally, it can be utilized to retrieve foreign objects, such as fragments from catheters or inferior vena cava filters, that may pose a risk to the patient’s health. During the procedure, a large bore needle is typically inserted into a blood vessel located in the groin or neck. A guidewire is then introduced through this needle, followed by the advancement of a catheter over the guidewire. This catheter is carefully navigated through the right side of the heart and into the main pulmonary artery, all under the guidance of imaging technology. In the case of a nonselective study, as indicated by CPT® Code 75746, a contrast dye is injected into the main pulmonary artery, allowing for real-time observation of blood flow. The resulting images can be recorded for further analysis or comparison with previous studies. In contrast, a selective study involves advancing the catheter into the right and/or left arteries that branch off from the main pulmonary artery, enabling a more detailed examination of the smaller lobar or segmental branches of the pulmonary vasculature. This comprehensive approach ensures that the radiologist can provide a thorough review and interpretation of the findings, contributing to informed clinical decision-making and patient management.