How To Use CPT Code 35661

CPT 35661 describes the procedure for bypass grafting using a synthetic graft to reroute blood flow around a blockage in the femoral artery. This article will cover the description, official details, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 35661?

CPT 35661 is used to describe a surgical procedure in which a provider uses a synthetic graft to bypass a blockage in the femoral artery. By rerouting the connection around the blockage to the femoral artery in the other leg, blood flow is restored and the risk of arteriosclerosis in the legs is reduced.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 35661 is: ‘Bypass graft, with other than vein; femoral-femoral.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider makes an incision over the femoral arteries in the upper leg.
2. A synthetic graft is prepared and clamps are applied to the femoral artery.
3. The provider incises the femoral artery above the blockage and sutures one end of the graft to the artery.
4. The graft is passed through a tunnel created under the skin.
5. An opening is made in the femoral artery on the opposite side and the graft is attached to the artery.
6. The clamps are released and the provider checks for leaks.
7. The patency of the graft may be checked through arteriography or ultrasound.
8. The incision is closed in layers and a drain may be placed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 35661 is performed on patients with femoral artery disease or peripheral artery disease. The procedure is used to bypass blood clots or blockages near the navel, allowing blood to flow to the lower legs and preventing arteriosclerosis. The patient must have a blockage or narrowing in the femoral artery that can be bypassed using a synthetic graft.

5. When to use CPT code 35661

CPT code 35661 should be used when a provider performs a femoral-femoral bypass graft using a synthetic graft. It is important to accurately document the procedure and ensure that the patient meets the qualifying circumstances for this code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 35661, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for a femoral-femoral bypass graft
• Details of the procedure, including the use of a synthetic graft
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional procedures performed, such as arteriography or ultrasound
• Any complications or adverse events
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 35661, ensure that the procedure meets the requirements for a femoral-femoral bypass graft using a synthetic graft. It is important to follow the specific guidelines for reporting this code and any associated codes. Be aware of any Medicare changes or restrictions that may apply.

8. Historical information

CPT 35661 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. It was later added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare in 2017.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs a femoral-femoral bypass graft using a synthetic graft to bypass a blockage in the femoral artery.
2. A patient with femoral artery disease undergoes a femoral-femoral bypass graft to restore blood flow to the lower legs.
3. A provider uses a synthetic graft to reroute blood flow around a blockage in the femoral artery, preventing arteriosclerosis in the legs.
4. A femoral-femoral bypass graft is performed on a patient with peripheral artery disease to improve blood flow to the lower extremities.
5. A provider performs a femoral-femoral bypass graft using a synthetic graft to treat a patient with a blockage in the femoral artery.
6. A patient undergoes a femoral-femoral bypass graft to bypass a blockage in the femoral artery and restore blood flow to the legs.
7. A provider uses a synthetic graft to reroute blood flow around a blockage in the femoral artery, improving circulation in the lower extremities.
8. A femoral-femoral bypass graft is performed on a patient with femoral artery disease to alleviate symptoms and prevent further complications.
9. A provider performs a femoral-femoral bypass graft using a synthetic graft to treat a patient with peripheral artery disease.
10. A patient undergoes a femoral-femoral bypass graft to bypass a blockage in the femoral artery and improve blood flow to the legs.