Suction Catheters Oropharyngeal vs Tracheoesophageal

Original Effective Date: 12/06/2001
Revision Effective Date: 11/01/2013

Claims data analysis in Region D indicates that some suppliers are incorrectly coding suction catheters. HCPCS code A4624 describes a tracheal suction catheter (Illustration A). These are long, flexible catheters typically contained in a sterile package. Suppliers should distinguish code A4624 from an oropharyngeal suction catheter (HCPCS code A4628), commonly referred to as a Yankauer suction tube (Illustration B). These are short, rigid, plastic suction instruments of durable construction. For additional information on the coverage and payment rules, coding and documentation guidelines, suppliers should consult the local medical review policy on Suction Pumps in the DMERC Region D Supplier Manual.

(NOTE: Refer to illustrations in the Article Attachment field.)

Suppliers should contact the Statistical Analysis Durable Medical Equipment Regional Carrier (SADMERC) for guidance on the correct coding of these items.

Last Updated May 11 , 2017