CPT® Code 34001

Embolectomy or thrombectomy is a surgical procedure aimed at removing an obstruction from a blood vessel, specifically targeting the carotid, subclavian, or innominate artery through an incision made in the neck. This obstruction can be in the form of an embolus, which is a blood clot or other debris that has traveled from another location in the body and lodged itself in a smaller vessel, or a thrombus, which is a clot that forms directly in the artery due to narrowing or stenosis. The procedure is critical in restoring blood flow to the affected area, which is essential for preventing complications such as tissue ischemia or infarction. The approach may involve the use of a catheter, although it can also be performed without one. The surgical technique includes making an incision in the neck to access the artery, placing vessel loops to control blood flow, and directly removing the clot through incision or using a balloon catheter to facilitate the removal process. This procedure is particularly relevant for patients with a history of cardiovascular issues, as emboli often originate from the heart, especially in cases of myocardial infarction or rheumatic heart disease.