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Cardiology Coding Alert

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93458 Applies When Approach is Radial?

Published on Mon Oct 10, 2011

Question:  If the cardiologist performs a left heart cath by a radial approach, would 93458-26 still be appropriate?Codify MemberAnswer: The radial approach will not change your left heart catheterization (LHC) code choice. If the cardiologist provided the services described by 93458 (Catheter placement in coronary artery[s] for coronary angiography, including intraprocedural injection[s] for coronary angiography, imaging supervision and interpretation; with left heart catheterization including intraprocedural injection[s] for left ventriculography, when performed), then you may use that code. Check the other LHC codes to be sure there isn't a better fit. As you indicate, you should append modifier 26 (Professional component) when the physician provides only the professional component.
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