Ask Dr. Z

Dr Z or Dr Dunn: I have a question regarding stenting of the right internal carotid for stenosis just above the bifurcation and then mechanical thrombectomy of the M1 and M2 arteries. I have 37215 for the stenting and this code includes diagnostic cath and the placements of the cath. I have two questions on the thrombectomy. This was performed after follow-up injections from the stenting still showed "some reopening of the right M1 segment and thrombus located within the M2 branches." Since the thrombectomy is after the stenting this would be considered secondary is that correct 37185 and is the M1 and M2 considered the same vascular family since access was through the rt internal carotid? Also the cath placements and diagnositic are still not able to be coded because of the stenting correct? thanks for patience and explanations in advance.