How To Use CPT Code 34701

CPT 34701 describes the endovascular repair of the infrarenal aorta using an aorto-aortic tube endograft. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 34701?

CPT 34701 is used to describe the endovascular repair of the infrarenal aorta by deploying an aorto-aortic tube endograft. This procedure involves pre-procedure sizing and device selection, nonselective catheterization, radiological supervision and interpretation, endograft extensions in the aorta from the renal arteries to the aortic bifurcation, and angioplasty/stenting from the renal arteries to the aortic bifurcation. It is important to note that this code is specifically used for reasons other than rupture, such as aneurysm, pseudoaneurysm, dissection, or penetrating ulcer.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 34701 is: ‘Endovascular repair of infrarenal aorta by deployment of an aorto-aortic tube endograft including pre-procedure sizing and device selection, all nonselective catheterization(s), all associated radiological supervision and interpretation, all endograft extension(s) placed in the aorta from the level of the renal arteries to the aortic bifurcation, and all angioplasty/stenting performed from the level of the renal arteries to the aortic bifurcation; for other than rupture (eg, for aneurysm, pseudoaneurysm, dissection, penetrating ulcer).’ It is important to note that covered stent placements for atherosclerotic occlusive disease isolated to the aorta should be reported with different codes.

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by assessing the patient’s condition and determining the need for endovascular repair of the infrarenal aorta.
2. A pre-procedure sizing and device selection is performed to ensure the appropriate endograft is chosen.
3. The provider then proceeds with nonselective catheterization, which involves accessing the artery and advancing a catheter to the site of the aneurysm, pseudoaneurysm, dissection, or penetrating ulcer.
4. Under imaging guidance, the provider inserts a catheter and guides a tube endograft through the catheter to the weak area in the wall of the aorta.
5. If necessary, the provider may place endograft extensions between the renal arteries and the aortic bifurcation to ensure proper coverage.
6. Angioplasty or stenting may be performed to open up or widen the lumen of the aorta.
7. After confirming the proper placement of the endograft, the provider withdraws the catheter, checks for any bleeding, and closes all incisions.