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BackTable / VI / Article
2025 Arterial Thrombectomy CPT Code
Bryant Schmitz • Updated Jul 31, 2025 • 70 hits
Arterial thrombectomy CPT codes 37184, +37185, and +37186 are used by interventional radiologists, vascular surgeons, and endovascular specialists to report mechanical removal of thrombus from peripheral arteries. This procedure is indicated for acute limb ischemia and thromboembolic occlusions. This article offers guidance on how to use the correct CPT codes for arterial thrombectomy to ensure accurate documentation and medical billing.
Table of Contents
(1) CPT Code for Arterial Thrombectomy
(2) Detailed Description of CPT Code 37184
(3) Detailed Description of CPT Code +37185
(4) Detailed Description of CPT Code +37186
(5) Coding & Billing Considerations
(6) Why Proper Coding Is Important
(7) What is a CPT Code?
(8) Disclaimer
CPT Code for Arterial Thrombectomy
The CPT code 37184 is used for the initial transcatheter mechanical removal of thrombus in a peripheral artery. Add-on codes +37185 and +37186 cover additional or secondary thrombectomy procedures performed during the same session.
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Detailed Description of CPT Code 37184
• CPT Code: 37184
• Code Description: Transcatheter removal of intravascular thrombus (mechanical thrombectomy), arterial, including fluoroscopic guidance and intraprocedural injection(s); initial vessel
• Inclusions: Fluoroscopy, catheterization, mechanical clot retrieval in the first treated artery, and related injections
• Exclusions: Additional vessels (report with +37185), secondary thrombectomy procedures (use +37186), venous thrombectomy (coded separately)
Detailed Description of CPT Code +37185
• CPT Code: +37185
• Code Description: Transcatheter removal of intravascular thrombus (mechanical thrombectomy), arterial; each additional vessel within the same session
• Inclusions: Mechanical thrombectomy in a separate artery beyond the initial vessel
• Exclusions: Use only in conjunction with 37184; not for repeat interventions in the same vessel or for venous procedures
Detailed Description of CPT Code +37186
• CPT Code: +37186
• Code Description: Secondary transcatheter thrombectomy (e.g., after thrombolysis) for reestablishment of patency, arterial or venous
• Inclusions: Small segment removal of residual thrombus in the same vascular territory following primary intervention
• Exclusions: Not used as a primary procedure; must accompany another thrombectomy or thrombolysis code
Coding & Billing Considerations
• Report 37184 for the initial peripheral arterial thrombectomy.
• Use +37185 for each additional arterial vessel treated beyond the first.
• Use +37186 when a secondary thrombectomy is performed in the same vascular territory during the same session.
• Do not use these codes for venous thrombectomy; those require separate CPT codes.
• Fluoroscopic guidance and injection(s) are included in 37184 and should not be billed separately.
• Ensure that documentation clearly distinguishes initial, additional, and secondary thrombectomy efforts.
• Always pair +37185 and +37186 with appropriate primary procedure codes—they cannot be billed alone.
• Check payer-specific bundling rules when performing multiple vascular interventions in one session.
Why Proper Coding Is Important
Accurate CPT coding for arterial thrombectomy supports appropriate reimbursement and reduces the likelihood of claim denials or audits. Using the correct code reflects the complexity of the procedure performed and ensures compliance with payer regulations. It also supports complete clinical documentation and reinforces best practices in interventional care delivery.
What is a CPT Code?
CPT stands for Current Procedural Terminology. These codes are used by medical professionals to describe procedures and services performed. CPT codes are crucial for the billing process, allowing healthcare providers to communicate with insurance companies and other payers about the procedures performed.
Disclaimer
The information provided here reflects our understanding of the procedure(s) and/or device(s). This information should not be construed as authoritative. We encourage you to consult CMS.
Podcast Contributors
Cite This Podcast
BackTable, LLC (Producer). (2023, April 24). Ep. 315 – Arterial Thrombectomy [Audio podcast]. Retrieved from https://www.backtable.com
Disclaimer: The Materials available on BackTable.com are for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for the professional judgment of a healthcare professional in diagnosing and treating patients. The opinions expressed by participants of the BackTable Podcast belong solely to the participants, and do not necessarily reflect the views of BackTable.
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