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96523

Irrigation of Implanted Venous Access Device

Code Description

CPT code 96523 is used to report the irrigation or flushing of an implanted venous access device used for drug delivery. The service helps maintain catheter patency and reduce the risk of occlusion when the device is not otherwise being used during the patient encounter. Medicare generally allows this code to be reported only when no other service is performed during the same encounter.

When to Use 96523

Common examples include:

  • Routine port flush

  • Maintenance of an implanted venous access device

  • Catheter irrigation to maintain patency

  • Follow-up vascular access maintenance

  • Implanted port care

  • Drug delivery system maintenance

Documentation Requirements

Documentation should include:

  • Reason for the irrigation

  • Type of implanted venous access device

  • Irrigation solution used

  • Confirmation that the device was successfully flushed

  • Patient response

  • Medical necessity for the service

Common Billing Mistakes

Common billing mistakes include:

  • Reporting 96523 with another payable service during the same encounter

  • Billing routine catheter maintenance incorrectly

  • Failing to document the implanted device

  • Insufficient documentation of medical necessity

  • Confusing catheter irrigation with blood specimen collection codes

Related CPT Codes
96365

IV Infusion, Initial

96372

Therapeutic Injection

90471

Immunization Administration

FAQ

What does CPT code 96523 cover?

CPT code 96523 reports irrigation or flushing of an implanted venous access device used for drug delivery.

Can CPT 96523 be billed with other services?

Under Medicare policy, CPT 96523 generally may be reported only when no other service is provided during the same patient encounter.

Is CPT 96523 used for routine port maintenance?

Yes. The code is commonly used for routine maintenance flushing of implanted venous access devices when appropriate documentation supports the service.

Is CPT 96523 a Medicine code?

Yes. CPT 96523 belongs to the Medicine section under therapeutic, prophylactic, and diagnostic services.

Procedure Type

Vascular Access Maintenance

Catheter Irrigation

Service

Implanted Venous Access Device

Catheter Irrigation