This monthly column in Cath Lab Digest reviews important points of distinction in DES, from characteristics to techniques, so that physicians have valuable and relevant information about this revolutionary technology. This article, the second in a two-part series on diabetes, will evaluate the data on drug-eluting stents (DES) in diabetics. Part one, in last month's issue, discussed why diabetics are more predisposed to coronary artery disease (CAD) and evaluated CAD treatment options for these patients.

This month: Burlington, Vermont

Executive Summary: The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has taken the initial steps towards creating new Diagnosis Related Groups (DRGs) for the insertion of multiple coronary artery stents. CMS has formally proposed the creation of new ICD-9-CM codes to allow for the tracking of both the number of vessels treated as well as the number of stents inserted. As of the publication of the Inpatient Proposed Rule, it is important to note that these new codes are not considered in the DRG assignment for CMS FY 2006. The intended use of the codes in CMS FY 2006 will be to gather charge data required to support a change in the structure of the DRGs. Since CMS will be using this information to set payment policy in future years, it is imperative that the refinements and documentation requirements be communicated to the appropriate physicians as well as all members of the coding and billing teams to ensure accurate coding on the effective date.

Chairperson; Director, Cardiac Education & Technology Sentara Southside Hospitals, Norfolk, Virginia

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