36482 Vein ablation Medicare reimbursement rates in Virginia

Code 36482 represents percutaneous catheter-based closure of an incompetent extremity vein using a chemical adhesive, commonly cyanoacrylate, rather than heat or injected sclerosant. Vascular surgeons, interventional radiologists, and other appropriately trained physicians use it for symptomatic superficial venous reflux, often involving a saphenous vein, in office-based procedure rooms or hospital outpatient settings. Imaging guidance and monitoring during the ablation are included in the service.

Report 36482 for the first vein treated; code 36483 identifies each additional vein treated in the same session. The record should identify the treated vein and side, document the venous disease or reflux supporting intervention, and describe catheter delivery and closure. CMS assigns a 0-day global period, so same-day preoperative and postoperative care is included. When multiple procedures occur in one session, the highest-valued procedure is paid in full and the others are reduced to 50%. For bilateral treatment, modifier 50 is paid at 150%. Medicare does not pay an assistant at surgery; co-surgeons and team surgery are not permitted.