How To Use CPT Code 35132

CPT code 35132 describes the direct repair of aneurysm, pseudoaneurysm, or excision (partial or total) and graft insertion, with or without patch graft, for a ruptured aneurysm in the iliac artery. 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 35132?

CPT 35132 can be used to describe the direct repair of a ruptured aneurysm in the iliac artery. This code is used when the provider performs a surgical procedure to repair the aneurysm, which may involve excision (partial or total) and graft insertion, with or without a patch graft.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 35132 is: ‘Direct repair of aneurysm, pseudoaneurysm, or excision (partial or total) and graft insertion, with or without patch graft; for ruptured aneurysm, iliac artery (common, hypogastric, external)’

3. Procedure

1. The provider makes an abdominal or retroperitoneal incision to access the ruptured aneurysm in the iliac artery.
2. The provider locates the exact site of the ruptured aneurysm by dissecting the surrounding structures.
3. The provider clamps the proximal and distal ends of the aneurysm.
4. The provider performs direct repair by cutting out the defect or places a graft at the site of repair.
5. If necessary, the provider may also place a patch graft to cover an open area on one side of the vessel or help widen the artery and improve blood flow.
6. The provider closes the incision with sutures in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 35132 is used for the direct repair of a ruptured aneurysm in the iliac artery. It is important to note that this code specifically applies to cases involving a ruptured aneurysm. The iliac artery refers to the large arteries that supply blood to the lower limbs and originate from the division of the aorta.

5. When to use CPT code 35132

CPT code 35132 should be used when the provider performs a direct repair of a ruptured aneurysm in the iliac artery. It is important to accurately document the specific circumstances of the procedure to support the use of this code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 35132, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of a ruptured aneurysm in the iliac artery
• Details of the procedure performed, including the approach (abdominal or retroperitoneal incision), location of the aneurysm, and the specific repair technique used
• Any additional procedures performed, such as excision, graft insertion, or patch graft
• Any complications or unexpected findings during the procedure
• Details of the closure of the incision
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 35132, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for a ruptured aneurysm in the iliac artery. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure and any additional procedures performed. CPT code 35132 should not be reported with other codes unless additional procedures were performed that are separately reportable.

8. Historical information

CPT 35132 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition. It is important to stay updated with any changes or revisions to the code in future editions of the CPT manual.

9. Examples

1. A surgeon performs a direct repair of a ruptured aneurysm in the iliac artery using a graft insertion and patch graft.
2. A vascular specialist performs a direct repair of a ruptured aneurysm in the iliac artery using excision and graft insertion.
3. An interventional radiologist performs a direct repair of a ruptured aneurysm in the iliac artery using a patch graft without excision.
4. A cardiovascular surgeon performs a direct repair of a ruptured aneurysm in the iliac artery using excision and graft insertion, with no patch graft.
5. A vascular surgeon performs a direct repair of a ruptured aneurysm in the iliac artery using a patch graft and excision.
6. An interventional cardiologist performs a direct repair of a ruptured aneurysm in the iliac artery using a graft insertion and no patch graft.
7. A general surgeon performs a direct repair of a ruptured aneurysm in the iliac artery using excision and graft insertion, with no patch graft.