CPT® Code 34530

A saphenopopliteal vein anastomosis is a surgical procedure that involves the connection of the saphenous vein to the popliteal vein, typically performed to restore venous flow in cases of obstruction. The procedure begins with the creation of an incision in the skin over the saphenous vein, which is a large vein located in the leg. Surgeons carefully dissect the saphenous vein from the surrounding tissues, ensuring that it remains intact while ligating its tributaries, which are smaller veins that drain into it. This dissection is crucial as it allows for a sufficient length of the saphenous vein to be mobilized for the anastomosis. Once the distal end of the saphenous vein is divided, it is then tunneled to reach the popliteal vein, which is located behind the knee. The obstructed segment of the popliteal vein is clamped and incised below the obstruction to facilitate the connection. Finally, an end-to-side anastomosis is performed, where the saphenous vein is attached to the popliteal vein, allowing blood to bypass the obstruction and restore normal venous circulation in the leg.