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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; each additional vessel (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 34826 refers to the placement of a proximal or distal extension prosthesis specifically for the endovascular repair of infrarenal abdominal aortic or iliac aneurysms, false aneurysms, or dissections. In simpler terms, this procedure involves the insertion of an additional prosthetic device into the aorta or iliac artery when the primary endograft component is insufficient in length to adequately address the vascular issue. This situation often arises when an endoleak, which is a complication where blood leaks into the aneurysm sac, is detected during the initial endograft repair. The extension prosthesis serves to effectively seal off the endoleak, ensuring that blood flow is redirected appropriately and the risk of further complications is minimized. The procedure can be performed either during the same surgical session as the initial repair or in a subsequent session if the endoleak is identified postoperatively. The placement of the extension prosthesis is guided by fluoroscopic imaging to ensure accurate positioning, followed by deployment using a balloon catheter to secure the prosthesis in place. This code is used in conjunction with CPT® Code 34825, which is designated for the placement of an extension prosthesis in the primary vessel, while 34826 is specifically for each additional vessel that requires treatment.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The placement of a proximal or distal extension prosthesis, as described by CPT® Code 34826, is indicated for the following conditions:

  • Infrarenal Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm - A localized enlargement of the abdominal aorta that occurs below the renal arteries, which can lead to serious complications if not treated.
  • Infrarenal Iliac Aneurysm - An aneurysm located in the iliac arteries, which branch off from the aorta and supply blood to the pelvis and legs.
  • False Aneurysm - A condition where there is a breach in the arterial wall leading to a hematoma that communicates with the arterial lumen, requiring intervention to prevent rupture.
  • Dissection - A serious condition where there is a tear in the artery wall, allowing blood to flow between the layers of the wall, which can compromise blood flow and lead to further complications.

2. Procedure

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

  • Step 1: Identification of the Need for Extension - During the initial endovascular repair, if an endoleak is detected, it indicates that the primary endograft is insufficient. This may be identified through imaging techniques such as fluoroscopy.
  • Step 2: Preparation for Placement - The surgical team prepares the necessary equipment, including the extension prosthesis and a guide wire, to facilitate the placement of the prosthesis in the affected vessel.
  • Step 3: Advancement of the Sheath - A sheath containing the extension prosthesis is advanced over the guide wire to the site of the endoleak. This step is crucial for ensuring that the prosthesis can be accurately positioned.
  • Step 4: Positioning and Deployment - Once the sheath is in place, the extension prosthesis is positioned at the site of the endoleak. The correct placement is confirmed using fluoroscopy to ensure that the prosthesis is accurately located.
  • Step 5: Sealing the Endoleak - The extension prosthesis is deployed and seated using a balloon catheter, which expands the prosthesis to fit snugly against the vessel wall. This step is essential for effectively sealing the endoleak.
  • Step 6: Verification - After deployment, contrast material is injected to verify that the endoleak is sealed and that blood flow is appropriately redirected, ensuring the success of the procedure.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care following the placement of a proximal or distal extension prosthesis includes monitoring the patient for any signs of complications, such as further endoleaks or vascular issues. Patients may require follow-up imaging studies to confirm the integrity of the repair and the effectiveness of the extension prosthesis. Recovery may vary depending on the individual patient's condition and the extent of the procedure performed. It is essential for healthcare providers to provide appropriate instructions for post-operative care, including activity restrictions and signs of potential complications that should prompt immediate medical attention.

Short Descr ENDOVASC EXTEN PROSTH ADDL
Medium Descr PLMT XTN PROSTH EVASC RPR ARYSM/DSJ EA VSL
Long Descr Placement of proximal or distal extension prosthesis for endovascular repair of infrarenal abdominal aortic or iliac aneurysm, false aneurysm, or dissection; each additional vessel (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)
Status Code Active Code
Global Days ZZZ - Code Related to Another Service
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) 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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