CPT code 93455 refers to a specific procedure used to examine the blood vessels of the heart. CPT 93455 represents “Catheter placement in coronary artery(s) for coronary angiography, including intraprocedural injection(s) for coronary angiography, imaging supervision and interpretation; with catheter placement(s) in bypass graft(s) (internal mammary, free arterial, venous grafts) including intraprocedural injection(s) for bypass graft angiography.”
Procedure Explanation:
This procedure involves inserting a thin tube, called a catheter, into the blood vessels of the heart to look for problems. It includes injecting a special dye to see the arteries clearly on X-rays. Additionally, it involves checking any bypasses that help blood flow around blockages. Beyond checking the main heart arteries, it also examines any existing bypass grafts, which are alternative routes created for blood flow using other veins or arteries.
Common Names:
- Coronary Angiography with Bypass Graft Study
- Heart Catheterization with Graft Visualization
- Coronary Artery Imaging
Relative Value Units (RVU):
The RVUs associated with this code are 5.29.
How This Procedure Appears:
- Operating Room Schedule Name: Heart vessel imaging with bypass view
- Surgical Consent Form Name: Permission for heart catheterization and bypass graft viewing
Typical Patients and Diagnoses:
This procedure is often used for patients who may have heart artery blockages or have had previous heart surgeries like bypass operations. For example, someone experiencing chest pain or suspected of having a heart attack might undergo this test. It helps doctors determine if arteries or bypass grafts are still functioning well or need further treatment.
Associated ICD-10 Codes:
- I25.10: This code is used when a patient has coronary artery disease without chest pain, indicating narrowed heart arteries.
- I25.110: This code applies to patients with coronary artery disease and chest discomfort, showing restricted blood flow and discomfort.
- Z95.1: This code is used when a patient has a history of heart bypass surgery, indicating prior surgical intervention to improve blood flow.
Summary
In summary, code 93455 describes a procedure where doctors examine heart arteries and check bypass grafts for blockages using a catheter and dye. Typical ICD-10 codes associated with 93455 include I25.10 (coronary artery disease without chest pain) and I25.110 (coronary artery disease with chest pain).
Disclaimer
This post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. “CPT” and CPT Codes are registered trademarks of the American Medical Association. HCPCS codes are managed by Medicare and are not subject to copyright.