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Code deleted. See 36902, 36905, 36907, 37246, 37247, 37248, 37249.

Official Description

Transluminal balloon angioplasty, open; aortic

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 35452 refers to an open transluminal balloon angioplasty specifically targeting the aorta. This medical intervention is performed to treat occlusions or blockages within the aorta, which can impede blood flow and lead to serious health complications. During the procedure, the physician gains access to the aorta through an incision in the skin over the access artery. This access allows for the introduction of specialized instruments necessary for the angioplasty. The process involves the use of a guidewire and a catheter equipped with a balloon tip, which is carefully navigated to the site of the blockage. Once positioned, the balloon is inflated to compress plaque against the arterial wall, thereby widening the artery and restoring blood flow. The procedure may require multiple inflations of the balloon to achieve optimal results. Following the angioplasty, a completion angiography is performed to confirm the success of the procedure and ensure that the aorta is patent, meaning that it is open and unobstructed. This comprehensive approach is critical for addressing significant vascular issues and improving patient outcomes.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The open transluminal balloon angioplasty of the aorta, as described by CPT® Code 35452, is indicated for specific conditions that involve significant arterial occlusions. These indications include:

  • Aortic Occlusion The procedure is performed to alleviate blockages in the aorta that can restrict blood flow, potentially leading to serious cardiovascular complications.
  • Ischemia Patients experiencing ischemia due to reduced blood supply to vital organs may require this procedure to restore adequate circulation.
  • Peripheral Artery Disease Individuals with peripheral artery disease affecting the aorta may benefit from this intervention to improve blood flow and reduce symptoms.

2. Procedure

The procedure for open transluminal balloon angioplasty of the aorta involves several critical steps, each designed to ensure effective treatment of the occlusion:

  • Access Preparation The skin over the access artery is thoroughly prepped and incised to allow for surgical access. This initial step is crucial for maintaining a sterile environment and minimizing the risk of infection.
  • Artery Exposure Once the incision is made, the underlying artery is carefully exposed. This involves dissection to visualize the artery clearly, which is essential for the subsequent steps of the procedure.
  • Sheath Placement A small nick is made in the artery to facilitate the placement of a sheath. This sheath serves as a conduit for the guidewire and other instruments needed for the angioplasty.
  • Guidewire Insertion A guidewire is inserted through the sheath and advanced from the access artery into the occluded aorta. This guidewire is critical for navigating the catheter to the site of the blockage.
  • Balloon Catheter Advancement A catheter with a balloon tip is then advanced over the guidewire to the location of the occlusion. This step requires precision to ensure that the balloon reaches the correct site for effective treatment.
  • Balloon Inflation The balloon is inflated at the site of the occlusion, which compresses the plaque against the arterial wall. This inflation may be repeated several times to achieve the desired dilation of the artery.
  • Guidewire Exchange After the angioplasty, the angioplasty catheter is exchanged for a guidewire, which is necessary for the next phase of the procedure.
  • Completion Angiography An angiography catheter is advanced over the guidewire, and the guidewire is then withdrawn. Contrast material is injected to visualize the artery, and a completion angiography is performed to confirm that the aorta is patent and that blood flow has been restored.
  • Access Site Repair Finally, the angiography catheter is withdrawn, and the access artery is repaired. The skin incision is then closed, completing the procedure.

3. Post-Procedure

After the completion of the open transluminal balloon angioplasty, patients typically undergo monitoring to assess their recovery. Post-procedure care may include managing any discomfort at the incision site and monitoring for potential complications such as bleeding or infection. Patients are often advised on activity restrictions and follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and to evaluate the success of the procedure. It is essential for healthcare providers to provide clear instructions regarding medication management, including any anticoagulants or antiplatelet agents that may be prescribed to prevent thrombosis following the angioplasty.

Short Descr REPAIR ARTERIAL BLOCKAGE
Medium Descr TRLUML BALLOON ANGIOPLASTY OPEN AORTIC
Long Descr Transluminal balloon angioplasty, open; aortic
Status Code Active Code
Global Days 000 - Endoscopic or Minor Procedure
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 2 - Standard payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 1 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures applies.
Physician Supervisions 9 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 2 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery does not apply to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 1 - Co-surgeons could be paid, though supporting documentation is required...
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
2016-12-31 Deleted Code deleted. See 36902, 36905, 36907, 37246, 37247, 37248, 37249.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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