Clarification of Vascular Access Devices vs. Central Venous Catheter

A central venous line was inserted for hyperalimentation. The subclavian vein was entered via venous puncture. A guidewire was inserted through the needle and the needle was removed. The guidewire was advanced in the superior vena cava. A skin incision was made by the dilator and the catheter was introduced over the guidewire. The catheter was secured at the skin exit. What is the correct code for the insertion of the catheter, 38.93 or 86.07 ? ...

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Note:  The following article synopsis was NOT provided by the AHA. It was created by Find-A-Code/innoviHealth.

Article Overview

This article reviews common vascular access device types, including peripheral and central catheters, PICC lines, and implantable access devices, and discusses how these concepts relate to coding references in ICD-9-CM. It is aimed at coding professionals who need a clearer understanding of vascular access terminology, device categories, and the broad clinical scenarios in which these devices are used. The article also includes a clarification notice and a short coding discussion tied to device placement and access method.

Why This Topic Matters

Vascular access terminology is often used inconsistently in clinical documentation, and coding accuracy depends on recognizing the category of device involved. This article helps readers understand the scope of common access devices and the coding context in which they are discussed.

Article Sections

  1. Vascular access device overview

    Introduces the general concept of vascular access devices and distinguishes broad venous access categories. Covers the general clinical setting for peripheral and central access.

  2. Central venous catheters and PICC lines

    Describes central venous catheter placement concepts and introduces PICC lines as a related type of access device. Notes common insertion settings and general uses.

  3. Totally implantable vascular access devices

    Discusses implantable vascular access devices and their broad characteristics, uses, and advantages. Includes the article’s clarification notice regarding one named device.

  4. Coding references and example discussion

    Presents the article’s coding-oriented comparison of vascular access device categories and a brief question-and-answer style discussion. Focuses on how the topic is framed in ICD-9-CM coding context.

What You Will Learn

  • How the article distinguishes major vascular access device categories
  • How peripheral, central, PICC, and implantable access devices are discussed in coding context
  • Which broad clinical uses are associated with different access device types
  • How the article frames a clarification notice related to a named device
  • What kinds of coding references are associated with vascular access device discussion

Who Should Read This

  • Medical coders
  • Coding auditors
  • Clinical documentation specialists
  • Health information management professionals
  • Reimbursement and billing staff

Codes Discussed


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