CPT® Code 75891

The CPT® Code 75891 refers to a specific radiological procedure known as hepatic venography, which can be performed either with wedged or free hepatic venous pressures. This procedure is conducted without hemodynamic evaluation, meaning that it does not include the assessment of blood flow gradients or velocities. During hepatic venography, a physician undertakes the task of supervising and interpreting the radiological aspects of the procedure. This involves the use of a catheter that is inserted into the hepatic vein, allowing for the injection of a radiopaque contrast material. The contrast material is essential for visualizing the hepatic vein and its branches on radiographs. The procedure begins with the placement of the hepatic vein catheter, followed by the injection of the contrast agent. Radiographs are then obtained to observe the blood flow through the hepatic vein and its branches. The physician is responsible for monitoring this flow and ensuring the accuracy of the radiological interpretation. The procedure also includes the measurement of wedged or free hepatic venous pressures. For free hepatic pressure, a balloon-tipped catheter is introduced into a distal branch of the hepatic vein without inflating the balloon. Conversely, wedged hepatic venous pressure is measured by inflating the balloon and wedging it into a distal branch, allowing for the collection of pressure readings. Alternatively, an end-hole catheter may be utilized to obtain free hepatic pressure, which is achieved by wedging the catheter tip in the distal hepatic vein. The physician employs fluoroscopic imaging to confirm the proper positioning of the catheter and to ensure that the injection of contrast material results in parenchymal blushing without any reflux along the catheter. After the procedure, the physician reviews the obtained radiographs and provides a comprehensive written interpretation of the findings. It is important to note that CPT® Code 75889 is related but distinct, as it involves hepatic venography with hemodynamic evaluation, which includes additional measurements of flow gradients and velocities.