Summary & Overview
CPT 75870: Venography of Superior Sagittal Sinus, Supervision and Interpretation
CPT code 75870 denotes supervision and interpretation of a venography of the superior sagittal sinus, a diagnostic radiology procedure that images cerebral venous structures after contrast administration. This code is used when a qualified provider oversees the procedure and interprets the venous images to assess thrombosis, malformation, or other venous abnormalities. Nationally, accurate coding of specialized neurovascular imaging affects clinical documentation, claims processing, and appropriate reimbursement for tertiary and outpatient imaging services.
Key payers covered in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find an overview of the clinical context for superior sagittal sinus venography, typical sites of service, and the role of provider supervision and interpretation in coding. The publication also summarizes payer coverage considerations, common modifier usage where applicable, and related coding references. This resource is intended to clarify the procedure represented by CPT code 75870, outline the administrative context for billing this service, and provide concise reference material for clinicians, coders, and revenue cycle staff handling neurovascular imaging claims.
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 75870 describes the supervision and interpretation of a venography of the superior sagittal sinus. This procedure involves imaging the small veins in the cerebral hemispheres after administration of contrast material to evaluate venous anatomy and pathology.
-
Service type: Diagnostic vascular imaging with supervision and interpretation
-
Typical site of service: Hospital radiology department or outpatient imaging center
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A 42-year-old patient presents to the hospital with a new severe headache, focal neurologic deficits, and concern for cerebral venous sinus thrombosis after recent oral contraceptive use. Neurology and interventional radiology evaluate the patient. After noninvasive imaging (CT venogram or MR venogram) suggests thrombosis of cortical veins and the superior sagittal sinus, the team schedules diagnostic cerebral venography with contrast to confirm the diagnosis and plan possible endovascular therapy.
The clinical workflow: the patient is consented and transported to the neuroradiology suite. An interventional radiology or neurointerventional physician performs supervised venography of the superior sagittal sinus under fluoroscopic guidance. Intravenous or intra-arterial contrast material is administered while the physician supervises imaging acquisition and provides real-time interpretation. Images are reviewed to assess the extent and location of thrombus, cortical vein involvement, and venous drainage patterns. The procedure may be followed by mechanical thrombectomy, catheter-directed thrombolysis, or transfer to the angiography suite for intervention if indicated. Documentation includes procedure indication, consent, contrast used, total fluoroscopy time, supervised image interpretation, and any immediate complications.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
26 | Professional component | When reporting only the physician interpretation/supervision separate from technical imaging facility charge |