CPT® Code 35216

A direct repair of an intrathoracic blood vessel involves a surgical procedure aimed at addressing injuries to blood vessels located within the thoracic cavity. This procedure is typically indicated when there is a need to correct damage to the blood vessel, which may result from trauma or other pathological conditions. The surgical approach often requires the chest to be opened, commonly through a median sternotomy, although alternative methods may be utilized depending on the specific circumstances of the injury. During the procedure, the surgeon may initiate cardiopulmonary bypass to maintain blood circulation and oxygenation while the repair is being performed. The injured blood vessel is carefully exposed, and clamps are applied both proximal and distal to the injury site to control any bleeding. The surgeon evaluates the extent of the damage, debrides the edges of the injury, and then reapproximates the vessel in an end-to-end manner using sutures. After the repair, the clamps are released, and hemostasis is verified along the suture line. If cardiopulmonary bypass was employed, the patient is subsequently weaned off the bypass. Finally, the overlying tissues are sutured back together in layers to complete the procedure. It is important to note that CPT® Code 35216 is specifically used for repairs performed without the use of cardiopulmonary bypass, while CPT® Code 35211 is designated for those repairs that do involve bypass.