Article
2025 IVC Filter Placement CPT Code
Bryant Schmitz • Updated Jan 1, 2025
An inferior vena cava (IVC) filter is a small device inserted into the inferior vena cava to prevent blood clots from traveling to the lungs, which can cause a pulmonary embolism. This procedure is often performed on patients who cannot take blood thinners or who are at high risk for clot formation. Understanding the proper CPT code for IVC filter placement is critical for accurate billing and reimbursement.
Table of Contents
CPT Code for IVC Filter Placement
Detailed Description of CPT Code 37191
Coding & Billing Considerations
Why Proper Coding Is Important
What is a CPT Code?
Disclaimer
CPT Code for IVC Filter Placement
The CPT code for IVC filter placement is 37191. This code specifically refers to the transcatheter placement of an IVC filter, which is used to prevent blood clots from reaching the lungs.
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Episode # 35 • 12 Nov 2018
Over-the-Wire Technique for IVC Filter Placement
Dr. David Mobley of Columbia University VIR describes his over-the-wire technique to prevent tilting in IVC filter placement. Special thanks to our sponsor Argon Medical.
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Detailed Description of CPT Code 37191
• CPT Code: 37191
• Code Description: Insertion of an inferior vena cava (IVC) filter via transcatheter technique. This procedure includes the placement of the filter and any associated imaging guidance required to position the filter accurately.
• Inclusions: The code includes the placement of the IVC filter and any necessary imaging guidance or fluoroscopic supervision used to place the filter.
• Exclusions: This code does not cover any pre-procedural consultations, imaging studies performed outside of the procedure, or follow-up visits, which need to be billed separately.
Coding & Billing Considerations
• Proper documentation should include details of the procedure, including imaging studies (e.g., fluoroscopy) used during filter placement.
• Use the appropriate ICD-10 code to reflect the underlying medical condition, such as I82.90 (Unspecified venous embolism and thrombosis of unspecified vein) or Z86.711 (Personal history of venous thrombosis and embolism).
• Additional codes may be required for related services, such as anesthesia (CPT 01992 for anesthesia used during vascular procedures).
Why Proper Coding Is Important
Accurate billing and coding for IVC filter placement is crucial for healthcare providers to receive appropriate reimbursement for the services rendered. Using the correct CPT code 37191 ensures that the procedure is correctly identified and that any imaging guidance or other necessary services are included in the claim. By ensuring accurate documentation and coding, healthcare providers can streamline the billing process and reduce the risk of claim denials.
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 essential 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.
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