Reader Question:
Vascular Angiography
Published on Fri Feb 01, 2002
Question: What is the correct supervision and interpretation code for selective superior mesenteric and celiac trunk angiography?
New York Subscriber
Answer: Both the superior mesenteric and the celiac trunk arteries are considered visceral (i.e., located in the abdomen). Therefore, if both angiograms are performed during the same session, the correct supervision and interpretation codes are 75726 (Angiography, visceral, selective or supraselective, [with or without flush aortogram], radiological supervision and interpretation) and 75774 (Angiography, selective, each additional vessel studied after basic examination, radiological supervision and interpretation [list separately in addition to code for primary procedure]). Even though both codes clearly state they are for supervision and interpretation, modifier -26 (professional component) must still be appended to indicate that the cardiologist does not own the equipment and did not provide the technical component of the service.