Accurate ICD-10-PCS and CPT coding for procedures on central venous access devices requires knowledge of the different types of central venous access devices, their purpose and how they function.
Please watch this presentation to learn about the different types of central venous access devices as well as their purpose, how they are positioned in the body and the steps to inserting a central venous access device.
Take Aways
- Central venous access devices allow direct access to the bloodstream for removing blood or administering drugs or other substances.
- The tip of a central venous access catheter is positioned in a central vein or the right atrium
- The non tip end of the catheter has an external or subcutaneous port through which blood is removed or substances are administered
- Central venous access devices may be inserted centrally or peripherally
- Central venous access devices may be:
- Non-tunneled
- Tunneled
- Totally implanted
To find additional instruction in ICD-10-PCS Coding for insertion of central venous access devices, explore the course Vascular Access Device ICD-10-PCS Coding at HIAlearn.com.
Take the Quiz
For detailed explanations of the quiz answers, please refer to the end of this blog post.
About the Series: Coding in the Real World with Cari
Coding in the Real World with Cari delivers focused, practical education built for how coding actually happens—not just how it’s written in guidelines. Each episode breaks down one coding topic at a time, using clear explanations and real-world scenarios to help coders apply concepts with confidence and accuracy.
Led by Cari Greenwood, RHIA, CCS, CPC, an AHIMA-approved ICD-10-CM/PCS trainer with more than twenty years of experience in health information management, the series draws on deep expertise across inpatient, outpatient, and professional fee coding and auditing. Cari’s background in education, client support, and curriculum development ensures each session is both technically sound and immediately applicable.
From complex diagnoses to nuanced documentation challenges, this series is designed to strengthen decision-making, reinforce compliance, and bridge the gap between guidance and real-world application.
Quiz Answers and RationaleQuestion 1: The iliac vein is a central vein in which the tip of a central venous catheter may terminate. The other veins are peripheral veins through which a central venous catheter is inserted.
Question 2: The correct answer is non-tunneled central line. This is not a PICC because the catheter was inserted through the internal jugular vein which is a central vein and PICCs are inserted through peripheral veins. There is not documentation of creation of a tunnel or implantation of a port, so this is a non-tunneled device. |
Since 1992, HIA has been the leading provider of compliance audits, coding support services and clinical documentation audit services for hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, physician groups and other healthcare entities. HIA offers PRN support as well as total outsource support.
The information contained in this coding advice is valid at the time of posting. Viewers are encouraged to research subsequent official guidance in the areas associated with the topic as they can change rapidly.
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