Cardiology Coding Alert

Question:  If the cardiologist performs a left heart cath by a radial approach, would 93458-26 still be appropriate?

SuperCoder.com Member

Answer: 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) [...]

- Published on 2011-10-10