Ask Dr. Z

A recent comment by a vascular surgeon caused me to research the appropriateness of using Iliac Vascular Repair(75954)vs. Iliac Stent(37221). Ex.1 - A patient developes a dissection in External Iliac Artery during a procedure. Attempt to "tack it up" with angioplasty is unsuccessful leading to a Viabahn covered stent placement. Ex. 2 - A patient presents for stenting of External Iliac and small aneurysm is found when roadmap image is taken. Use a Viabahn covered stent for stenosis and to cover area of aneurysm. The comment was made that anytime you "repair" an iliac regardless of product used - it is 75954. The CIRCC study guide states the codes are specific to the devices and techniques used and to the location of the abnormalities. So does 75954 require a specific device in addition to technique and location? Thank you for clarifying and for your assistance!