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Code deleted, see 34709, 34710, 34711.

Official Description

Placement of proximal or distal extension prosthesis for endovascular repair of infrarenal abdominal aortic or iliac aneurysm, false aneurysm, or dissection; initial vessel

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 34825 involves the placement of a proximal or distal extension prosthesis specifically for the endovascular repair of an infrarenal abdominal aortic or iliac aneurysm, false aneurysm, or dissection. In simpler terms, this procedure is performed when the main endograft components used to repair the aorta or iliac artery are determined to be insufficient in length. This insufficiency is often identified during the initial endograft repair as an endoleak, which is a condition where blood leaks from the main graft into the surrounding area. The extension prosthesis serves as an additional component that extends the reach of the existing graft to effectively seal off the endoleak. The placement of the extension prosthesis can occur during the same surgical session as the initial repair or may be performed in a subsequent session if the endoleak is detected postoperatively. The procedure involves advancing a sheath that contains the extension prosthesis over a guide wire to the site of the endoleak. Once positioned, fluoroscopy is utilized to confirm the correct placement of the prosthesis. Following confirmation, the extension prosthesis is deployed and secured in place using a balloon catheter. To ensure that the endoleak is adequately sealed, contrast material is injected, allowing for visualization of the repair. This procedure is critical for maintaining the integrity of the vascular repair and preventing complications associated with aneurysms or dissections.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The placement of a proximal or distal extension prosthesis for endovascular repair is indicated in the following situations:

  • Infrarenal Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm - This condition involves the dilation of the abdominal aorta below the renal arteries, which can lead to life-threatening complications if not addressed.
  • Iliac Aneurysm - An aneurysm occurring in the iliac arteries, which can also pose significant risks if it ruptures.
  • False Aneurysm - A false aneurysm, or pseudoaneurysm, occurs when there is a breach in the arterial wall, leading to a collection of blood outside the vessel but still contained by surrounding tissue.
  • Dissection - A dissection refers to a tear in the artery wall, which can lead to serious complications and requires prompt intervention.

2. Procedure

The procedure for placing a proximal or distal extension prosthesis involves several critical steps:

  • Step 1: Identification of the Endoleak - During the initial endograft repair, the surgical team monitors for any signs of an endoleak, which may indicate that the main graft is not adequately sealing the aneurysm or dissection. If an endoleak is identified, the need for an extension prosthesis is determined.
  • Step 2: Preparation for Placement - The surgical team prepares the necessary equipment, including the sheath and guide wire, to facilitate the placement of the extension prosthesis. The patient is positioned appropriately, and sterile techniques are employed to minimize the risk of infection.
  • Step 3: Advancement of the Sheath - The sheath containing the extension prosthesis is carefully advanced over the guide wire to the site of the endoleak. This step requires precision to ensure that the prosthesis is positioned correctly within the vascular system.
  • Step 4: Confirmation of Placement - Once the extension prosthesis is in place, fluoroscopy is utilized to confirm its correct positioning. This imaging technique allows the surgical team to visualize the prosthesis and ensure it is adequately aligned with the existing graft.
  • Step 5: Deployment of the Prosthesis - After confirming proper placement, the extension prosthesis is deployed and seated using a balloon catheter. This step involves inflating the balloon to secure the prosthesis in place against the vessel wall.
  • Step 6: Verification of Seal - To ensure that the endoleak is effectively sealed, contrast material is injected. This allows for imaging to confirm that there is no further leakage and that the repair is successful.

3. Post-Procedure

After the placement of the extension prosthesis, patients are typically monitored for any immediate complications. This may include checking for signs of bleeding, infection, or any adverse reactions to the contrast material used during the procedure. Follow-up imaging studies may be scheduled to assess the integrity of the repair and ensure that the endoleak remains sealed. Patients may also receive instructions regarding activity restrictions and signs to watch for that could indicate complications. The overall recovery process will depend on the individual patient's health status and the complexity of the procedure performed.

Short Descr ENDOVASC EXTEND PROSTH INIT
Medium Descr PLMT XTN PROSTH EVASC RPR ARYSM/DSJ 1ST VSL
Long Descr Placement of proximal or distal extension prosthesis for endovascular repair of infrarenal abdominal aortic or iliac aneurysm, false aneurysm, or dissection; initial vessel
Status Code Active Code
Global Days 090 - Major Surgery
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 2 - Standard 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) 2 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery does not apply to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 2 - Co-surgeons permitted and no documentation required if the two- specialty requirement is met.
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) P2F - Major procedure, cardiovascular-Other
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 61 - Other OR procedures on vessels other than head and neck
Date
Action
Notes
2017-12-31 Deleted Code deleted, see 34709, 34710, 34711.
2011-01-01 Changed Short description changed.
2003-01-01 Changed Code description changed.
2001-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 2001.
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