CPT® Code 34051

Embolectomy or thrombectomy is a surgical procedure aimed at removing an obstruction from a blood vessel, specifically targeting the innominate or subclavian artery through a thoracic incision. This procedure is essential when an embolus, which is a blood clot or other debris that has traveled from another part of the body, becomes lodged in these arteries, impeding blood flow. The obstruction can also be due to a thrombus, which is a clot that forms in situ within the artery, often in areas that are narrowed or stenotic. The innominate artery branches off from the aorta and supplies blood to the right arm and head, while the subclavian artery supplies blood to the arms. The presence of an embolus or thrombus in these arteries can lead to serious complications, including ischemia or infarction of the tissues supplied by these vessels. The procedure can be performed with or without the assistance of a catheter, depending on the specific circumstances of the obstruction. The thoracic approach allows for direct access to the affected artery, facilitating the removal of the clot while minimizing the risk of dislodging it into the cerebral circulation, which could lead to a stroke. Following the removal of the obstruction, angiography may be conducted to confirm that the artery is clear and that normal blood flow has been restored.