CPT® Code 34839

Physician planning of a patient-specific fenestrated visceral aortic endograft requiring a minimum of 90 minutes of physician time

Fenestrated visceral aortic endograft placement is a sophisticated and intricate procedure utilized primarily for the repair of aortic aneurysms. This technique is performed by specialized healthcare professionals, including vascular surgeons, interventional radiologists, general surgeons, or interventional cardiologists. The process begins with a thorough review of the patient's angiograms and other diagnostic imaging studies to assess the anatomy and pathology of the aorta. The physician must select the appropriate graft tailored to the unique physiological characteristics of the patient, ensuring that the graft will effectively address the specific aortic condition. This planning phase is critical, as it involves determining the size and location of the aortic disease, which directly influences the choice of endograft. The endograft itself is designed with fenestrations, or openings, that must align precisely with the natural visceral ostia—these are the openings that lead to other vital vessels such as the renal arteries, internal iliac arteries, and the aortic arch. The meticulous planning process requires a minimum of 90 minutes of dedicated physician time to ensure that all aspects of the procedure are carefully considered and tailored to the individual patient's needs, ultimately leading to a more stable and effective repair compared to traditional open surgical methods.