Patients who are evaluated for venous thromboembolic and cardiovascular risk factors within 30 days prior to the procedure (e.g., history of dvt, pe, mi, arrhythmia and stroke)
HCPCS code
Name of the Procedure:
Venous Thromboembolic and Cardiovascular Risk Evaluation (HCPCS Code: G9298)
Summary
This procedure involves evaluating patients for risk factors related to venous thromboembolism (VTE) and cardiovascular conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), myocardial infarction (MI), arrhythmia, and stroke within 30 days before undergoing a primary medical or surgical procedure.
Purpose
The main goal is to identify and assess any existing or potential risk factors for VTE and cardiovascular problems that may complicate the upcoming procedure.
Indications
- History of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE)
- History of myocardial infarction (MI)
- Existing arrhythmias
- Previous strokes
- Patients scheduled for major surgery or other significant medical procedures
Preparation
- Review of patient medical history and records
- Blood tests to assess clotting function and other relevant markers
- Possibly imaging studies such as ultrasound or echocardiogram
- Instructions may include adjusting current medications, particularly anticoagulants, and achieving optimal blood pressure control
- No fasting generally required unless combined with other pre-surgery protocols
Procedure Description
- Medical History Review: Comprehensive review of personal and family medical history related to VTE and cardiovascular events.
- Physical Examination: Evaluation of physical signs that might indicate risk factors.
- Diagnostic Tests: Blood tests, imaging studies, and other relevant tests.
- Risk Assessment: Using validated tools and guidelines to assess the likelihood of VTE or cardiovascular complications.
- Consultation: Discussion with the patient about the findings and any necessary adjustments to the upcoming procedural plans.
Tools and equipment may include stethoscopes, ultrasound machines, electrocardiograms (EKG), and blood sampling kits. General anesthesia or sedation is not typically required for this evaluation.
Duration
The evaluation typically takes between 1 to 2 hours, depending on the extent of diagnostic tests required.
Setting
Usually conducted in an outpatient setting, such as a physician's office, outpatient clinic, or pre-operative assessment center.
Personnel
- Primary care physician or specialist (e.g., cardiologist, hematologist)
- Nurses or medical assistants
- Technicians for imaging and laboratory tests
Risks and Complications
- Minimal risk involved as it is primarily diagnostic
- Possible discomfort from blood draws or imaging procedures
- Minor allergic reactions to contrast materials, if used
Benefits
- Early identification of risk factors
- Reduced likelihood of complications during and after the primary procedure
- Tailored procedural plans that take into account any identified risks
- Better-informed decision-making for both patient and healthcare team
Recovery
- No recovery time needed as it is a non-invasive assessment
- Follow pre-op instructions provided by your healthcare team
Alternatives
- Relying solely on the general pre-op screening without specific risk evaluation could miss critical risk factors, increasing the chance of complications.
- Direct treatment without risk assessment might be quicker but poses higher risks for the patient.
Patient Experience
Patients may feel slight discomfort during blood draws or imaging tests. Overall, the procedure is straightforward, and healthcare providers will take steps to ensure patient comfort throughout. Any necessary pain management or comfort measures will be provided based on the diagnostic tests involved.