Certified Professional Coder (CPC) Practice Test

Which procedure involves repairing an aneurysm of an intracranial artery?

1. Thyroidectomy

2. Hemilaminectomy

3. Balloon catheter treatment

4. Cystoscopy

The correct answer is: Balloon catheter treatment

Balloon catheter treatment specifically addresses the repair of an aneurysm of an intracranial artery. This procedure typically entails the use of a balloon to effectively widen the artery at the site of the aneurysm, thereby facilitating improved blood flow and potentially preventing rupture. In the context of neurovascular interventions, this technique is crucial for managing intracranial aneurysms, which can pose significant health risks if left untreated. Other procedures listed, such as thyroidectomy, hemilaminectomy, and cystoscopy, serve entirely different purposes. A thyroidectomy involves the removal of all or part of the thyroid gland, primarily to treat thyroid disorders or tumors. Hemilaminectomy is a spinal surgery performed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, often due to herniated discs rather than any vascular issues. Cystoscopy is a procedure used to examine the bladder and urethra, having no relevance to aneurysm repair. Hence, understanding the specific application of balloon catheter treatment is essential for recognizing its role in addressing intracranial artery aneurysms.