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CPT®
0079T

CPT® Code 0079T
Deleted

Code deleted, see 34841-34848

Official Description

Placement of visceral extension prosthesis for endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm involving visceral vessels, each visceral branch (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 0079T refers to the placement of a visceral extension prosthesis specifically designed for the endovascular repair of an abdominal aortic aneurysm that involves visceral vessels. This procedure is critical in managing complex abdominal aortic aneurysms, particularly when the aneurysm extends into the arteries that supply blood to the organs. The term "visceral extension prosthesis" indicates a specialized device that is used to reinforce the aorta and maintain blood flow to the visceral branches, which include arteries that supply the stomach, intestines, kidneys, and other vital organs. The procedure typically involves accessing the femoral or iliac arteries, through which a guidewire is navigated retrograde into the ascending aorta, often with the aid of fluoroscopic imaging. This allows for precise placement of the prosthesis. The process may also require additional access through the brachial artery to facilitate the placement of the prosthesis components. The careful measurement of the aneurysm and the selection of an appropriately sized stent-graft extension prosthesis are crucial steps in ensuring the success of the repair. The deployment of the prosthesis involves ballooning techniques to secure the device in place, ensuring that it effectively seals the aneurysm and restores normal blood flow through the aorta and its branches.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The placement of a visceral extension prosthesis for endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm is indicated in the following scenarios:

  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) - The procedure is performed when there is a presence of an abdominal aortic aneurysm that extends into the visceral vessels, necessitating a specialized approach to repair.
  • Involvement of Visceral Vessels - Indicated when the aneurysm affects the arteries supplying vital organs, requiring the use of a visceral extension prosthesis to maintain blood flow.

2. Procedure

The procedure for the placement of a visceral extension prosthesis involves several critical steps:

  • Accessing the Arteries - The procedure begins with the puncture of an access artery, typically the femoral or iliac artery. A flexible guidewire is then passed in a retrograde manner into the ascending aorta, often utilizing fluoroscopic guidance to ensure accurate placement.
  • Additional Access if Necessary - In some cases, access through the brachial artery may be required to assist in the placement of the proximal extension components, providing an alternative route for the guidewire and prosthesis.
  • Puncturing the Contralateral Artery - The contralateral femoral or iliac artery is punctured, and a sheath is placed. A second guidewire is then passed into the ascending aorta to facilitate the procedure.
  • Obtaining an Aortogram - An aortogram is performed to evaluate the proximal aspect of the aneurysm, allowing for assessment of the aneurysm's size and shape.
  • Measuring the Proximal Extension Site - An ultrasound probe is introduced to measure the proximal extension site accurately, ensuring that the selected stent-graft extension prosthesis will fit properly.
  • Selecting the Stent-Graft Extension Prosthesis - Based on the measurements obtained, a properly sized stent-graft extension prosthesis is selected for deployment.
  • Exchanging Guidewires - One of the flexible guidewires is removed and exchanged for a stiff guidewire, which provides better support for the prosthesis during placement.
  • Preparing for Deployment - One of the sheaths is removed and replaced with an introducer sheath to facilitate the loading and maneuvering of the stent-graft extension prosthesis into position.
  • Deploying the Prosthesis - The stent-graft extension prosthesis is loaded into the introducer sheath and maneuvered into the correct position. An additional aortogram is obtained to verify the correct positioning of the extension prosthesis before deployment.
  • Ballooning and Sealing - Once positioned, the overlapping segment of the stent-graft and the proximal extension prosthesis is ballooned and sealed to ensure a secure fit. The proximal end of the extension prosthesis is also ballooned and sealed to the aorta, completing the repair.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care involves monitoring the patient for any complications related to the placement of the visceral extension prosthesis. This includes assessing for signs of bleeding, infection, or graft-related issues. Patients may require imaging studies to confirm the proper placement and function of the prosthesis. Recovery time can vary based on the individual patient's condition and the complexity of the procedure, but close follow-up is essential to ensure the success of the repair and to manage any potential complications.
Short Descr ENDOVASC VISC EXTNSN REPR
Medium Descr PLMT VISC XTN PROSTH EVASC RPR AAA EA VISC
Long Descr Placement of visceral extension prosthesis for endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm involving visceral vessels, each visceral branch (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)
Status Code Carriers Price the Code
Global Days XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 0 - No payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Inpatient Procedures, not paid under OPPS
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) none
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 61 - Other OR procedures on vessels other than head and neck
Date
Action
Notes
2014-01-01 Deleted Code deleted, see 34841-34848
2011-01-01 Changed Guideline information changed.
2005-01-01 Added Code added.
Code
Description
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