How To Use CPT Code 35522

CPT 35522 describes a procedure known as bypass graft, with vein; axillary-brachial. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 35522?

CPT 35522 is a code used to describe a specific surgical procedure called bypass graft, with vein; axillary-brachial. This procedure involves bypassing a blockage in a blood vessel by inserting a graft that connects the axillary artery to a portion of the brachial artery using a vein graft.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 35522 is: ‘Bypass graft, with vein; axillary-brachial.’

3. Procedure

1. During the procedure, the healthcare provider makes an incision near the collarbone and accesses the axillary artery and the brachial artery.
2. Clamps are applied to the axillary artery to temporarily stop the blood flow.
3. An opening is created in the axillary artery, and one end of the graft is attached to it.
4. The graft is then passed through a created tunnel and clamps are applied to the brachial artery.
5. An opening is created in the brachial artery, and the other end of the graft is attached to it.
6. The clamps are removed to restore normal blood flow, and the incision is closed in layers after ensuring hemostasis.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 35522 is performed on patients who have a blockage in their blood vessels that requires bypass grafting. The procedure is specifically used to connect the axillary artery to a portion of the brachial artery using a vein graft. This procedure is typically performed by a healthcare provider who is trained and qualified to perform surgical interventions.

5. When to use CPT code 35522

CPT code 35522 should be used when a healthcare provider performs a bypass graft procedure, connecting the axillary artery to a portion of the brachial artery using a vein graft. This code accurately describes the specific procedure being performed and should be used for reporting purposes.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 35522, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s medical history and diagnosis necessitating the bypass graft procedure
• Details of the procedure, including the specific vessels involved and the use of a vein graft
• Date of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 35522, it is important to ensure that the procedure performed matches the description of the code. The healthcare provider should also follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer. It is important to accurately report the procedure to ensure proper reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT code 35522 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2004. The code has not undergone any updates since its addition. However, 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 patient with a blockage in the axillary artery undergoes a bypass graft procedure to connect it to a portion of the brachial artery using a vein graft.
2. A healthcare provider performs a bypass graft procedure on a patient with a blockage in the brachial artery, connecting it to the axillary artery using a vein graft.
3. A patient with a blockage in both the axillary and brachial arteries undergoes a bypass graft procedure to restore blood flow using a vein graft.
4. A healthcare provider performs a bypass graft procedure on a patient with a blockage in the axillary artery, connecting it to the brachial artery using a vein graft.
5. A patient with a blockage in the brachial artery undergoes a bypass graft procedure to connect it to the axillary artery using a vein graft.
6. A healthcare provider performs a bypass graft procedure on a patient with a blockage in the axillary artery, connecting it to a portion of the brachial artery below the elbow using a vein graft.
7. A patient with a blockage in the brachial artery undergoes a bypass graft procedure to restore blood flow using a vein graft connected to the axillary artery.
8. A healthcare provider performs a bypass graft procedure on a patient with a blockage in the axillary artery, connecting it to the brachial artery using a vein graft.
9. A patient with a blockage in both the axillary and brachial arteries undergoes a bypass graft procedure to restore blood flow using a vein graft.
10. A healthcare provider performs a bypass graft procedure on a patient with a blockage in the axillary artery, connecting it to a portion of the brachial artery below the elbow using a vein graft.