Radiology Coding Alert

Question: How can we report the diagnostic venography in the subclavian vein?

Wisconsin Subscriber

Answer: For subclavian venography, report an extremity code, such as 75820 (Venography, extremity, unilateral, radiological supervision and interpretation), for the radiological supervision and interpretation. Append modifier 26 (Professional component) if you’re reporting only the physician’s work.

Earn for injection procedure: You should report 36005 (Injection procedure for extremity venography [including introduction of needle or intracatheter]) for the injection. This code is not split into professional and technical components, so you should not append modifier 26, even in a facility setting.

Documentation: The venogram must be diagnostic in nature to be reportable with these codes. Be sure documentation shows medical necessity and documents findings.