CPT® Code 92944

Add-On Code

Percutaneous transluminal revascularization of chronic total occlusion, coronary artery, coronary artery branch, or coronary artery bypass graft, any combination of intracoronary stent, atherectomy and angioplasty; each additional coronary artery, coronary artery branch, or bypass graft (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

Percutaneous transluminal revascularization of a chronic total occlusion involves a minimally invasive procedure aimed at restoring blood flow in a coronary artery, coronary artery branch, or a coronary artery bypass graft that has been completely blocked for an extended period, specifically more than three months. A chronic total occlusion is characterized by a blockage of greater than 99% in the artery or graft. This procedure utilizes various techniques, including angioplasty, atherectomy, and the placement of stents, to achieve revascularization. The process begins with the preparation of the skin over the access artery, typically one of the femoral arteries, followed by puncturing the artery and placing a sheath to facilitate access. Under radiological guidance, a guidewire is navigated through the occluded artery. If angioplasty is indicated, a balloon catheter is advanced to the blockage site, where it is inflated to compress the plaque against the arterial wall, thereby widening the artery. Alternatively, atherectomy may be performed, which involves using a specialized catheter to shave plaque from the artery. If necessary, an intravascular stent is deployed to maintain the artery's patency. Following the procedure, completion angiography is conducted to confirm the success of the revascularization, and appropriate post-procedure care is implemented to ensure patient safety and recovery.