CPT® Code 75872

The CPT® Code 75872 refers to the procedure known as venography of the epidural space, which involves radiological supervision and interpretation. This procedure utilizes a radiopaque contrast medium, which is a substance that enhances the visibility of internal structures during imaging studies. The primary purpose of this venography is to evaluate the epidural venous vasculature, which is crucial for diagnosing conditions such as epidural tumors or herniation of intervertebral discs that may encroach upon the epidural space. The epidural space itself is anatomically defined as the compartment located between the dural sheath and the spinal canal, extending from the cervical vertebrae down to the sacrum. Within this space, there exists a complex venous plexus, along with semi-liquid fat, lymphatics, arteries, connective tissue, and spinal nerve roots. The epidural venous system is composed of two main components: the internal vertebral venous plexus, which consists of four interconnecting longitudinal vessels (two anterior and two posterior), and the external vertebral plexus, which is situated peripheral to the vertebrae. The venous drainage from the vertebral veins in the cervical region connects to the subclavian vein, while the azygous and hemizygous veins in the thoracic area drain into the superior vena cava. In the abdominal region, the ascending lumbar veins and the internal iliac veins in the pelvic area converge into the common iliac veins and ultimately into the inferior vena cava. During the procedure, access is gained to the right or left femoral vein using a large bore needle, through which a guidewire is introduced into the vena cava. A catheter is then advanced over the guidewire to the designated area for the injection of the contrast medium. Following the injection, x-ray films are taken to visualize the epidural veins. The CPT® Code 75872 encompasses not only the radiological supervision of the venography procedure but also the review and interpretation of the obtained images, culminating in a comprehensive written report detailing the findings of the study.