How To Use CPT Code 35311

CPT 35311 describes a surgical procedure known as thromboendarterectomy, specifically for the subclavian or innominate 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 35311?

CPT 35311 is a code used to describe a surgical procedure called thromboendarterectomy. This procedure involves the removal of thrombus and plaques from either the subclavian or innominate artery. The surgeon makes an incision in the thorax to access the artery and performs an endarterectomy to remove the affected portion of the artery. If necessary, a patch graft may be used to cover the defect. This code specifically applies to the subclavian or innominate artery.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 35311 is: ‘Thromboendarterectomy, including patch graft, if performed; subclavian, innominate, by thoracic incision.’

3. Procedure

1. The surgeon prepares the patient and administers anesthesia.
2. A thoracic incision is made to access the subclavian or innominate artery.
3. Tissue is dissected to expose the artery.
4. If a graft is needed, the surgeon harvests a vein, prepares it, and places vascular clamps on the subclavian or innominate artery.
5. The surgeon performs an endarterectomy to remove the thrombus or atherosclerosis from the artery.
6. If necessary, a patch graft is 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 incision is closed in layers, ensuring hemostasis.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 35311 is used for patients who require a thromboendarterectomy procedure on either the subclavian or innominate artery. This procedure is typically performed to remove thrombus or atherosclerosis from the artery, restoring normal blood flow. The patient must meet the criteria for this specific procedure, and the surgeon must perform the procedure via a thoracic incision.

5. When to use CPT code 35311

CPT code 35311 should be used when a surgeon performs a thromboendarterectomy on either the subclavian or innominate artery via a thoracic incision. This code is specific to this procedure and should not be used for other types of thromboendarterectomy or for different arteries.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 35311, the surgeon must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis necessitating the thromboendarterectomy procedure
• Details of the surgical approach, including the thoracic incision
• Description of the thrombus or atherosclerosis removed
• Use of a patch graft, if performed
• Date of the procedure
• Signature of the surgeon performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 35311, ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. The surgeon must perform the procedure on either the subclavian or innominate artery via a thoracic incision. It is important to follow the appropriate coding guidelines and modifiers when reporting this code. Additionally, be aware of any specific billing requirements from insurance providers or payers.

8. Historical information

CPT 35311 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code underwent a change on January 1, 2007, with an updated description. It is important to stay updated with any changes or revisions to the code in order to accurately report the procedure.

9. Examples

1. A surgeon performs a thromboendarterectomy on the subclavian artery via a thoracic incision to remove a thrombus.
2. A patient undergoes a thromboendarterectomy on the innominate artery to remove atherosclerosis, performed by a surgeon through a thoracic incision.
3. A surgeon performs a thromboendarterectomy on the subclavian artery, including a patch graft, via a thoracic incision to restore normal blood flow.
4. A patient requires a thromboendarterectomy on the innominate artery due to a thrombus, performed by a surgeon through a thoracic incision.
5. A surgeon performs a thromboendarterectomy on the subclavian artery, including a patch graft, to remove atherosclerosis and improve blood flow.
6. A patient undergoes a thromboendarterectomy on the innominate artery via a thoracic incision to remove a thrombus, performed by a surgeon.
7. A surgeon performs a thromboendarterectomy on the subclavian artery to remove atherosclerosis, restoring normal blood flow, through a thoracic incision.
8. A patient requires a thromboendarterectomy on the innominate artery, including a patch graft, due to a thrombus, performed by a surgeon via a thoracic incision.
9. A surgeon performs a thromboendarterectomy on the subclavian artery via a thoracic incision to remove a thrombus and improve blood flow.
10. A patient undergoes a thromboendarterectomy on the innominate artery to remove atherosclerosis, performed by a surgeon through a thoracic incision.