How To Use CPT Code 35565

CPT 35565 describes a specific procedure known as bypass graft with vein, specifically targeting the iliofemoral region. This article will provide an overview of CPT code 35565, 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 35565?

CPT 35565 is a code used to describe a bypass graft procedure that involves connecting the iliac artery to a portion of the femoral artery using a vein graft. This procedure is performed to bypass a blockage in the blood vessels and restore normal blood flow. It is important to note that CPT 35565 specifically refers to the iliofemoral region.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 35565 is: ‘Bypass graft, with vein; iliofemoral.’ This code indicates that the procedure involves creating a bypass using a vein graft to connect the iliac artery to the femoral artery in the iliofemoral region.

3. Procedure

1. The procedure begins with the patient being appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. The provider makes an abdominal incision to access the iliac artery and a groin incision to access the femoral artery.
3. A pathway is created between the target anastomosis sites.
4. A graft may be harvested from another part of the body.
5. Clamps are applied to the iliac artery to temporarily stop blood flow.
6. An opening is created and one end of the graft is attached to the iliac artery.
7. The graft is passed through a tunnel to the femoral artery.
8. Vessels are clamped as needed, and an opening is created to attach the other end of the graft to the femoral artery.
9. Clamps are removed to restore normal blood flow.
10. The incisions are closed in layers after ensuring hemostasis.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 35565 is performed when there is a blockage in the iliofemoral region that requires a bypass graft. The procedure is typically performed by a qualified healthcare provider who has the necessary expertise and training in vascular surgery. It is important to note that this procedure specifically involves the use of a vein graft to create the bypass.

5. When to use CPT code 35565

CPT code 35565 should be used when a bypass graft procedure is performed in the iliofemoral region using a vein graft. It is important to accurately document the specific details of the procedure to support the use of this code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 35565, the following documentation is required:

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

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 35565, ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure to support the use of this code. Additionally, be aware of any specific billing guidelines or modifiers that may be required by insurance providers or payers.

8. Historical information

CPT code 35565 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code has undergone no updates since its addition. However, it is important to stay updated with any changes or revisions that may occur in the future.

9. Examples

1. A patient with a blockage in the iliofemoral region undergoes a bypass graft procedure using a vein graft to restore blood flow.
2. A qualified healthcare provider performs a bypass graft procedure in the iliofemoral region using a vein graft to bypass a blockage.
3. A patient with a history of peripheral artery disease undergoes a bypass graft procedure in the iliofemoral region to improve blood flow.
4. A healthcare provider performs a bypass graft procedure using a vein graft to bypass a blockage in the iliofemoral region of a patient’s blood vessels.
5. A patient with a severe blockage in the iliofemoral region undergoes a bypass graft procedure using a vein graft to restore blood flow and improve circulation.
6. A qualified healthcare provider performs a bypass graft procedure in the iliofemoral region using a vein graft to bypass a blockage and improve the patient’s vascular health.
7. A patient with atherosclerosis in the iliofemoral region undergoes a bypass graft procedure using a vein graft to restore blood flow and alleviate symptoms.
8. A healthcare provider performs a bypass graft procedure using a vein graft to bypass a blockage in the iliofemoral region and improve the patient’s quality of life.
9. A patient with chronic leg pain due to a blockage in the iliofemoral region undergoes a bypass graft procedure using a vein graft to restore blood flow and alleviate symptoms.
10. A qualified healthcare provider performs a bypass graft procedure in the iliofemoral region using a vein graft to bypass a blockage and improve the patient’s mobility.