How To Use CPT Code 35341

CPT 35341 describes a surgical procedure known as thromboendarterectomy, which involves the removal of thrombus and plaques from the mesenteric, celiac, or renal artery. This article will provide an overview of CPT code 35341, including its official description, the procedure itself, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 35341?

CPT 35341 is a code used to describe a surgical procedure called thromboendarterectomy. This procedure involves the removal of thrombus and plaques from the mesenteric, celiac, or renal artery. It is typically performed by a healthcare provider who makes an incision in the abdomen to access the affected artery. The provider then removes the portion of the artery where the thrombus or atherosclerosis has formed, ensuring that the inner diameter of the artery is maintained. In some cases, a patch graft may be used to cover the defect in the artery. The procedure aims to restore normal blood flow and prevent further complications associated with arterial blockages.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 35341 is: ‘Thromboendarterectomy, including patch graft, if performed; mesenteric, celiac, or renal.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider prepares the patient for the procedure, ensuring that they are appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. An incision is made in the abdomen to access the mesenteric, celiac, or renal artery.
3. If a graft is needed, the provider may harvest a vein from the patient’s body and prepare it for use.
4. Mesenteric, celiac, or renal vascular clamps are placed as necessary to control blood flow.
5. The provider opens the artery and performs an endarterectomy, removing the thrombus or atherosclerosis from the inner lining of the artery.
6. If required, a patch graft may be placed to cover the defect in the artery.
7. The arterial opening is closed with sutures, and the clamps are removed to restore normal blood flow.
8. The incision in the abdomen is closed in layers, ensuring hemostasis.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 35341 is used for patients who require thromboendarterectomy of the mesenteric, celiac, or renal artery. These patients typically have thrombus or atherosclerosis that is causing blockages or impairing blood flow in these arteries. The procedure is performed by a qualified healthcare provider who has the necessary expertise and training to perform the surgery. It is important to note that the use of a patch graft, if performed, should be documented separately.

5. When to use CPT code 35341

CPT code 35341 should be used when a healthcare provider performs a thromboendarterectomy on the mesenteric, celiac, or renal artery. This code is appropriate when the procedure includes the removal of thrombus and plaques, as well as the potential use of a patch graft. It is important to ensure that the documentation accurately reflects the specific artery involved and any additional procedures performed.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 35341, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for thromboendarterectomy
• Specific artery involved (mesenteric, celiac, or renal)
• Details of the procedure, including the use of a patch graft if performed
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional procedures performed
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 35341, it is important to ensure that the documentation supports the use of this specific code. The procedure should involve the removal of thrombus and plaques from the mesenteric, celiac, or renal artery, with or without the use of a patch graft. It is also important to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer or coding guidelines. It is recommended to review the documentation and guidelines carefully to ensure accurate and appropriate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT code 35341 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been some changes to the code over the years, including a code change on January 1, 2007, which added the option for the procedure to be performed with or without a patch graft. Additionally, it was added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare in 2017.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes thromboendarterectomy of the mesenteric artery to remove a thrombus causing blockage and restore normal blood flow.
2. A healthcare provider performs thromboendarterectomy of the celiac artery to remove plaques and improve blood flow to the abdominal organs.
3. A patient with renal artery stenosis undergoes thromboendarterectomy to remove thrombus and restore proper blood flow to the kidneys.
4. A healthcare provider performs thromboendarterectomy of the mesenteric artery, using a patch graft to repair a defect in the artery.
5. A patient with atherosclerosis in the celiac artery undergoes thromboendarterectomy to remove the plaques and improve blood flow to the abdominal organs.
6. A healthcare provider performs thromboendarterectomy of the renal artery, using a patch graft to repair a defect in the artery and restore normal blood flow to the kidneys.
7. A patient with mesenteric artery thrombosis undergoes thromboendarterectomy to remove the thrombus and restore proper blood flow to the intestines.