CPT Code 35536 | Description & Clinical Information

CPT 35536 describes the surgical procedure in which the healthcare provider inserts a bypass graft, typically a vein graft, to connect the splenic artery to a portion of renal artery, thereby bypassing a blood vessel blockage.

Official Description

The CPT book defines CPT code 35536 as: “Bypass graft, with vein; splenorenal”.

Clinical Information

The procedure described by CPT code 35536 is a complex surgical technique that involves creating a connection between the splenic artery and renal artery through the use of a graft. This procedure is typically performed on patients who suffer from hypertension or kidney disease, and whose renal arteries are partially or completely blocked.

The first step of the procedure involves preparing the patient for anesthesia and ensuring that they are appropriately prepped for surgery. Once the patient is anesthetized, and the surgical team has created a sterile field, the surgeon makes an incision in the patient’s abdomen to access the splenic artery.

Once the surgeon has accessed the splenic artery, they begin to dissect the soft tissue to access the renal artery. This process can be challenging, as the renal artery is located deep within the abdomen and is surrounded by a complex network of blood vessels.

Once the surgeon has accessed the renal artery, they create a tunnel between the target anastomosis sites. This tunnel is essential as it allows the graft to be passed from the splenic artery to the renal artery without interfering with any other blood vessels.

The surgeon may choose to harvest a graft from another part of the patient’s body, such as the leg or arm. This graft is typically a vein, and it is carefully prepared for use in the anastomosis.

Next, the surgeon applies clamps to the splenic artery. These clamps temporarily block the flow of blood to the spleen, allowing the surgeon to create an opening and attach one end of the graft to the artery.

Once the graft is attached to the splenic artery, the surgeon applies clamps to the renal artery. They then create an opening and attach the other end of the graft to the renal artery.

Finally, the surgeon removes the clamps, allowing the blood to flow normally through the graft, and ensuring that the anastomosis is successful. The surgeon then closes the skin incision in layers, taking care to ensure that the patient does not experience any excessive bleeding.

In conclusion, CPT code 35536 is a complex surgical procedure that requires a skilled and experienced surgeon to perform. While the procedure can be challenging, it can provide significant benefits to patients suffering from hypertension or kidney disease. The success of the procedure depends on careful planning, attention to detail, and a precise surgical technique.

Return to all the CPT codes for vein bypass graft procedures.