Advanced Search

General Surgery Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Choose 35301 for Endarterectomy

Published on Sun Jan 25, 2004

Question: What are the proper codes for carotid endarterectomy?

Washington, D.C., Subscriber Answer: The only available code for carotid endarterectomy is 35301 (Thromboendarterectomy, with or without patch graft; carotid, vertebral, subclavian, by neck incision). The procedure serves to prevent stroke by allowing the surgeon to remove atherosclerotic plaque, which causes narrowing of blood vessels, from the carotid artery (the main artery carrying blood to the head).
 
During the procedure, the surgeon exposes the carotid artery through an incision in the side of the neck. The surgeon clamps the artery on either side of the affected area, opens the artery, removes the plaque and then sews the artery closed. If the carotid endarterectomy is a repeat procedure more than one month after the initial operation, you should also bill - and be paid for - add-on code +35390 (Reoperation, carotid, thromboendarterectomy, more than one month after original operation [list separately in addition to code for primary procedure]).
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in Revenue Cycle Insider
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more

Other Articles in this issue of

General Surgery Coding Alert

View All