CPT® Code 96373

An intra-arterial injection involves the administration of a therapeutic, prophylactic, or diagnostic substance or drug directly into an artery. This method is utilized to ensure that the medication reaches the target area more effectively, as it allows for direct delivery to the organ or tissue that requires treatment. Intra-arterial injections are relatively uncommon compared to other routes of administration, such as intravenous or intramuscular injections, due to the complexity and risks associated with accessing an artery. The procedure begins with the identification of the appropriate arterial site, followed by cleansing of the skin to minimize the risk of infection. Once the site is prepared, the artery is punctured using a needle, and the specified substance or drug is injected into the arterial circulation. This technique is particularly useful in situations where localized treatment is necessary, allowing for higher concentrations of the drug to be delivered directly to the affected area while potentially reducing systemic side effects.