How To Use CPT Code 35531

CPT 35531 describes a procedure known as bypass graft, with vein; aortoceliac or aortomesenteric. 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 35531?

CPT 35531 is used to describe a specific surgical procedure in which a bypass graft is inserted to bypass a blockage in a blood vessel. The graft connects the aorta to either the celiac or mesenteric artery using a vein graft. This procedure is performed to restore normal blood flow and alleviate symptoms caused by the blockage.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 35531 is: ‘Bypass graft, with vein; aortoceliac or aortomesenteric.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. An incision is made in the abdomen to expose the aorta.
3. A second incision is made to locate and expose the target anastomosis site on the celiac or mesenteric artery.
4. A pathway is created between the two anastomosis sites.
5. A graft may be harvested from another part of the patient’s body.
6. Clamps are applied to the aorta to temporarily stop blood flow.
7. An opening is created and one end of the graft is attached to the aorta.
8. The graft is passed through and clamps are applied to the second artery.
9. Another opening is created and the other end of the graft is attached to the second artery.
10. The clamps are removed to restore normal blood flow.
11. The incision is closed in layers after ensuring hemostasis.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 35531 is performed on patients who have a blockage in a blood vessel that requires bypass grafting. The procedure is typically done when other treatment options have been exhausted or are not suitable for the patient. The patient must have a specific condition that necessitates the bypass graft, such as atherosclerosis or arterial stenosis. The procedure is performed by a qualified healthcare professional who has the necessary training and expertise in vascular surgery.

5. When to use CPT code 35531

CPT code 35531 should be used when a bypass graft procedure is performed to bypass a blockage in either the aortoceliac or aortomesenteric artery using a vein graft. This code should be used for each instance of the procedure performed on a patient. It is important to ensure that the documentation supports the use of this specific CPT code and accurately describes the procedure performed.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 35531, the healthcare professional must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for bypass grafting
• Specific details of the procedure, including the location of the blockage and the type of graft used
• Date of the procedure
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the healthcare professional performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 35531, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. The procedure must involve a bypass graft with a vein, connecting the aorta to either the celiac or mesenteric artery. It is also important to follow any additional guidelines or requirements set forth by the payer or insurance company. It is recommended to review the specific billing guidelines and requirements for CPT code 35531 to ensure accurate and appropriate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT code 35531 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code has undergone changes over the years, including being added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare in 2017.

9. Examples

1. A patient with a blockage in the celiac artery undergoes a bypass graft procedure using a vein graft to restore blood flow.
2. A patient with a blockage in the mesenteric artery undergoes a bypass graft procedure using a vein graft to alleviate symptoms.
3. A patient with a blockage in both the celiac and mesenteric arteries undergoes a bypass graft procedure using a vein graft to improve blood flow to the affected areas.
4. A patient with a blockage in the aortoceliac artery undergoes a bypass graft procedure using a vein graft to restore normal blood flow.
5. A patient with a blockage in the aortomesenteric artery undergoes a bypass graft procedure using a vein graft to alleviate symptoms and improve blood flow.
6. A patient with a blockage in the aortoceliac and aortomesenteric arteries undergoes a bypass graft procedure using a vein graft to restore blood flow to both areas.
7. A patient with a blockage in the celiac artery and aortomesenteric artery undergoes a bypass graft procedure using a vein graft to improve blood flow to both areas.
8. A patient with a blockage in the aortoceliac artery and mesenteric artery undergoes a bypass graft procedure using a vein graft to restore normal blood flow to both areas.
9. A patient with a blockage in the aortoceliac, aortomesenteric, and mesenteric arteries undergoes a bypass graft procedure using a vein graft to alleviate symptoms and improve blood flow to all affected areas.
10. A patient with a blockage in the aortoceliac, aortomesenteric, and celiac arteries undergoes a bypass graft procedure using a vein graft to restore blood flow to all affected areas.