How To Use CPT Code 35601

CPT 35601 describes the procedure of bypass grafting using a synthetic graft to treat a blockage in the common carotid artery. This article will cover the official description, procedure details, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 35601?

CPT 35601 is a code used to describe a surgical procedure known as bypass grafting. In this procedure, a synthetic graft is used to create a bypass around a blockage in the common carotid artery. The purpose of this procedure is to restore blood flow to the affected area and prevent further complications.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 35601 is: ‘Bypass graft, with other than vein; common carotid-ipsilateral internal carotid.’

3. Procedure

1. The surgeon begins by making an incision along the neck to access the common carotid artery and the bifurcation of the external and internal carotids.
2. Nerves and muscles may need to be freed and divided to reach the site and expose the carotid arteries.
3. The surgeon then prepares the synthetic graft, which will be used to create the bypass.
4. Clamps are applied to the internal, external, and common carotid arteries to temporarily stop blood flow.
5. An incision is made from the common carotid to the internal carotid, if necessary.
6. The surgeon transects the common carotid and attaches one end of the graft to that artery.
7. The internal carotid is also transected, and the other end of the graft is attached to that artery.
8. An end-to-end or end-to-side connection is used to bypass the damaged or blocked portion of the common carotid artery.
9. Once the bypass is complete, the surgeon closes the incision in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 35601 is used when a bypass graft is performed on the common carotid artery, specifically in cases where the graft is connected to the ipsilateral internal carotid artery. This procedure is typically performed to treat blockages or stenosis in the common carotid artery that cannot be addressed through other means.

5. When to use CPT code 35601

CPT code 35601 should be used when a surgeon performs a bypass graft procedure on the common carotid artery, connecting it to the ipsilateral internal carotid artery. This code is specific to cases where a synthetic graft is used and the bypass is performed on the common carotid artery.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 35601, the surgeon must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for bypass grafting
• Details of the procedure, including the use of a synthetic graft and the connection between the common carotid and ipsilateral internal carotid arteries
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional relevant information, such as the size of the graft used or any complications encountered
• Signature of the performing surgeon

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 35601, ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure and provide any necessary supporting documentation. Additionally, be aware of any specific billing guidelines or requirements set forth by insurance providers or regulatory bodies.

8. Historical information

CPT code 35601 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There was a code change on January 1, 2007, where the description was updated to specify ‘common carotid-ipsilateral internal carotid.’ It is important to stay updated on any changes or revisions to the code to ensure accurate reporting.

9. Examples

1. A surgeon performs a bypass graft on the common carotid artery, connecting it to the ipsilateral internal carotid artery using a synthetic graft.
2. During a surgical procedure, a synthetic graft is used to bypass a blockage in the common carotid artery, connecting it to the ipsilateral internal carotid artery.
3. A patient undergoes bypass grafting on the common carotid artery, with the graft connected to the ipsilateral internal carotid artery to restore blood flow.
4. A surgeon performs a bypass graft procedure on the common carotid artery, using a synthetic graft to create a connection with the ipsilateral internal carotid artery.
5. During a surgical intervention, a synthetic graft is utilized to bypass a blockage in the common carotid artery, connecting it to the ipsilateral internal carotid artery.
6. A bypass graft is performed on the common carotid artery, with the graft connected to the ipsilateral internal carotid artery, using a synthetic material.
7. A surgeon conducts a procedure involving bypass grafting on the common carotid artery, connecting it to the ipsilateral internal carotid artery with the aid of a synthetic graft.
8. Using a synthetic graft, a surgeon performs a bypass graft on the common carotid artery, connecting it to the ipsilateral internal carotid artery to restore blood flow.
9. A patient undergoes bypass grafting on the common carotid artery, with the graft connected to the ipsilateral internal carotid artery, using a synthetic material.