How To Use CPT Code 35558

CPT 35558 describes the procedure for bypassing a blood vessel blockage by inserting a bypass graft that connects the femoral artery to another portion of the femoral artery using a vein graft. This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 35558?

CPT 35558 can be used to describe the procedure in which a healthcare provider creates a bypass graft to bypass a blockage in a blood vessel. Specifically, this code is used when the provider connects the femoral artery to another part of the femoral artery using a vein graft. The purpose of this procedure is to restore normal blood flow and alleviate symptoms caused by the blockage.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 35558 is: ‘Bypass graft, with vein; femoral-femoral.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider prepares the patient for the procedure and administers anesthesia.
2. The provider makes incisions in the groin area to access the femoral arteries on both sides.
3. A pathway is created between the target anastomosis sites.
4. A vein graft is harvested from another part of the patient’s body.
5. The provider applies clamps to the femoral arteries to temporarily stop blood flow.
6. An opening is created in one femoral artery, and one end of the vein graft is attached to it.
7. The vein graft is passed through a tunnel to the other femoral artery.
8. As needed, the provider clamps vessels and creates an opening in the other femoral artery to attach the other end of the vein graft.
9. The clamps are removed to restore normal blood flow.
10. The incisions in the groin area are closed in layers, ensuring hemostasis.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 35558 is performed on patients who have a blockage in a blood vessel that requires bypass grafting. The procedure specifically involves connecting the femoral artery to another part of the femoral artery using a vein graft. This procedure is typically performed by a qualified healthcare provider who has the necessary expertise and training in vascular surgery.

5. When to use CPT code 35558

CPT code 35558 should be used when a healthcare provider performs a bypass graft procedure that connects the femoral artery to another part of the femoral artery using a vein graft. This code accurately describes the specific procedure being performed and ensures proper documentation and billing.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 35558, 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
• Start and end times of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 35558, ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. The procedure should involve bypass grafting of the femoral artery using a vein graft. It is important to follow the appropriate coding and billing guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 35558 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. In 2017, it was added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare reimbursement.

9. Examples

1. A vascular surgeon performing a femoral-femoral bypass graft using a vein graft to bypass a blockage in the femoral artery.
2. A patient with peripheral arterial disease undergoing a femoral-femoral bypass graft procedure to restore blood flow in the affected leg.
3. A bypass graft surgery performed on a patient with atherosclerosis, connecting the femoral artery to another part of the femoral artery using a vein graft.
4. A healthcare provider performing a femoral-femoral bypass graft to treat a patient with a blocked femoral artery due to a blood clot.
5. A patient with a history of vascular disease undergoing a femoral-femoral bypass graft procedure to improve blood flow and alleviate symptoms.
6. A bypass graft surgery performed on a patient with a femoral artery aneurysm, connecting the femoral artery to another part of the femoral artery using a vein graft.
7. A healthcare provider performing a femoral-femoral bypass graft to treat a patient with atherosclerosis and multiple blockages in the femoral artery.
8. A patient with a blocked femoral artery due to atherosclerosis undergoing a femoral-femoral bypass graft procedure to restore blood flow and prevent further complications.
9. A bypass graft surgery performed on a patient with peripheral vascular disease, connecting the femoral artery to another part of the femoral artery using a vein graft.
10. A healthcare provider performing a femoral-femoral bypass graft to treat a patient with a blocked femoral artery caused by atherosclerosis and diabetes.