Ask Dr. Z

The CPT Codebook description for code 34708 states that all non-selective catheterizations are included. The notes preceding the Endovascular Repair of Abdominal Aorta and/or Iliac Arteries section of the book state, “Non-selective catheterization is included in 34701, 34702, 34703, 34704, 34705, 34706, 34707, 34708 and is not separately reported. However, selective catheterization of the hypogastric artery(ies), renal artery(ies), and/or arterial families outside the treatment zone of the endograft may be separately reported.” Can you please clarify these instructions for us, just so we’re sure we understand? If we are coding 34708 and there is a selective catheterization performed, but it is within the treatment zone (e.g., 36246 for an external iliac that has ruptured), are we to exclude the cath code?