37600 Ligation external carotid artery
Also known as: ECA ligation, External carotid tie
Surgical ligation of the external carotid artery, typically performed to control hemorrhage or manage vascular malformations.
In Plain Language
Tying off neck artery; External neck vessel surgery
Clinical Context
Performed for uncontrolled epistaxis, arteriovenous fistulas, or severe hemorrhage from head and neck trauma or surgery.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 12.11 |
| Total RVU | 12.11 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. This code has a 90-day global period, which includes the day of the procedure, 1 day preoperative, and 90 days of postoperative care. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 12.11, this code ranks in the 65th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.5x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 37600?
CPT 37600 (Ligation external carotid artery) is a Surgery code. Surgical ligation of the external carotid artery, typically performed to control hemorrhage or manage vascular malformations.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 37600?
The work RVU for CPT 37600 is 12.11. This code is primarily used by Vascular Surgery, Otolaryngology, Trauma Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 37600 used?
Performed for uncontrolled epistaxis, arteriovenous fistulas, or severe hemorrhage from head and neck trauma or surgery.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.