CPT® Code 92995

Deleted

Percutaneous transluminal coronary atherectomy, by mechanical or other method, with or without balloon angioplasty; single vessel

The procedure described by CPT® Code 92995 refers to a percutaneous transluminal coronary atherectomy, which is a minimally invasive technique used to remove plaque buildup from the coronary arteries. This procedure can be performed using mechanical methods or other techniques, and it may be accompanied by balloon angioplasty, which involves the use of a balloon catheter to further open the artery. The access point for this procedure is typically through the femoral artery, where the skin is prepared, and a needle is used to puncture the artery, allowing for the insertion of a sheath. A guidewire is then navigated through the aorta and into the affected coronary artery, which is often occluded due to plaque accumulation. During the atherectomy, a specialized balloon catheter equipped with a cutting piston is utilized to shave away the plaque from the arterial wall. This cutting action allows the plaque to be collected into the device for removal once the procedure is completed. The physician may perform multiple passes with the atherectomy device to ensure thorough plaque removal. After the atherectomy, a balloon-tipped angioplasty catheter may be introduced to the blockage site, where it is inflated to compress any residual plaque and smooth the artery's interior. Finally, contrast dye is injected, and completion angiography is conducted to confirm that the treated artery remains open and patent. This procedure is specifically coded as 92995 for a single coronary artery, while 92996 is designated for atherectomy of each additional coronary artery.