How To Use CPT Code 35302

CPT 35302 describes a specific procedure known as thromboendarterectomy, which involves the removal of thrombus and plaques from the superficial femoral artery. This article will cover the official description, procedure details, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 35302?

CPT 35302 is a code used to describe a surgical procedure called thromboendarterectomy. This procedure involves the removal of thrombus and plaques from the superficial femoral artery, which is the largest blood vessel passing through the thigh. It is typically performed to treat conditions such as atherosclerosis, which is characterized by the abnormal thickening of artery walls due to fatty deposits.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 35302 is: ‘Thromboendarterectomy, including patch graft, if performed; superficial femoral artery.’

3. Procedure

1. The surgeon begins by making an incision in the skin of the thigh over the superficial femoral artery.
2. If a graft is needed, the surgeon may also make an incision over a vein, harvest the graft, tie off the donor vein ends, and prepare the graft.
3. Vascular clamps are placed on the superficial femoral artery as necessary, and the artery is opened.
4. The surgeon then performs an endarterectomy, which involves removing the portion of the artery where the thrombus or atherosclerosis has formed.
5. To maintain a normal inner diameter of the artery over the affected area, the surgeon removes the intima, or the inner lining, of the artery.
6. If necessary, a synthetic or homogenous patch graft may be placed to cover the defect.
7. The arterial opening is closed with sutures, and the clamps are removed to restore normal blood flow.
8. The skin incision is closed in layers after ensuring hemostasis.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 35302 is performed on patients who have thrombus or atherosclerosis in the superficial femoral artery. The procedure is typically indicated when conservative treatments have failed to alleviate symptoms or when there is a risk of complications. It is important to note that the procedure may involve the use of a patch graft, but this is not always necessary.

5. When to use CPT code 35302

CPT code 35302 should be used when a thromboendarterectomy is performed on the superficial femoral artery. It is important to accurately document the procedure and ensure that it meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 35302, the following documentation is required:

• Patient’s diagnosis indicating the presence of thrombus or atherosclerosis in the superficial femoral artery
• Description of the procedure performed, including any use of a patch graft
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the surgical approach and technique
• Any additional procedures performed in conjunction with thromboendarterectomy
• Signature of the performing surgeon

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 35302, it is important to ensure that the procedure performed meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. Additionally, it is essential to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by insurance carriers or payers. It is also important to note that CPT code 35302 should not be reported with other codes that describe similar procedures on the same artery.

8. Historical information

CPT code 35302 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2007. It has not undergone any updates since its addition. However, it is worth noting that Medicare has classified this procedure as an Inpatient Only (IPO) service since 2017.

9. Examples

1. A surgeon performs a thromboendarterectomy on a patient with atherosclerosis in the superficial femoral artery.
2. A patient undergoes a thromboendarterectomy to remove a thrombus from the superficial femoral artery.
3. A surgeon performs a thromboendarterectomy on a patient with both thrombus and atherosclerosis in the superficial femoral artery.
4. A patient with symptomatic atherosclerosis in the superficial femoral artery undergoes a thromboendarterectomy to alleviate symptoms and improve blood flow.
5. A surgeon performs a thromboendarterectomy on a patient with a history of recurrent thrombosis in the superficial femoral artery.
6. A patient with atherosclerosis in the superficial femoral artery undergoes a thromboendarterectomy to prevent further complications.
7. A surgeon performs a thromboendarterectomy on a patient with a large thrombus obstructing the superficial femoral artery.
8. A patient with atherosclerosis in the superficial femoral artery undergoes a thromboendarterectomy to restore normal blood flow and improve overall vascular health.
9. A surgeon performs a thromboendarterectomy on a patient with both thrombus and atherosclerosis in the superficial femoral artery to prevent further progression of the disease.
10. A patient with symptomatic atherosclerosis in the superficial femoral artery undergoes a thromboendarterectomy to alleviate pain and improve mobility.