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

Official Description

Transluminal balloon angioplasty, open; brachiocephalic trunk or branches, each vessel

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 35458 involves an open transluminal balloon angioplasty specifically targeting the brachiocephalic trunk or its branches. This intervention is performed to alleviate blockages within these critical blood vessels, which are responsible for supplying blood to the arms and head. The process begins with the preparation of the skin over the access artery, followed by an incision to expose the artery. Once the artery is accessed, a small nick is made, and a sheath is inserted to facilitate further procedures. A guidewire is then introduced and navigated through the artery into the brachiocephalic trunk or its branches. A catheter equipped with a balloon tip is advanced over this guidewire to the site of the occlusion. The balloon is inflated, which compresses the plaque against the arterial wall, thereby widening the vessel and restoring blood flow. This inflation may be repeated multiple times to achieve optimal results. After the angioplasty, the catheter is exchanged for a guidewire, and an angiography catheter is used to perform a completion angiography, ensuring that the vessel remains patent after the procedure. Finally, the angiography catheter is removed, the access artery is repaired, and the skin incision is closed. It is important to note that the code 35458 should be used for each vessel treated during this procedure.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The indications for performing an open transluminal balloon angioplasty of the brachiocephalic trunk or branches include the following:

  • Occlusion or Stenosis - The procedure is indicated for patients with significant narrowing or blockage of the brachiocephalic trunk or its branches, which can lead to reduced blood flow to the upper extremities and head.
  • Symptoms of Ischemia - Patients presenting with symptoms such as arm weakness, numbness, or other signs of ischemia may require this intervention to restore adequate blood supply.
  • Prevention of Complications - The procedure may be performed to prevent potential complications associated with severe stenosis, such as thrombosis or embolism, which could result in more serious cardiovascular events.

2. Procedure

The procedure consists of several critical steps, each essential for the successful completion of the angioplasty:

  • Step 1: Preparation and Incision - The skin over the access artery is thoroughly prepped to maintain a sterile environment. An incision is made to expose the artery, allowing for direct access to the vascular system.
  • Step 2: Artery Access - A small nick is made in the artery, and a sheath is placed within the artery to facilitate the introduction of other instruments needed for the procedure.
  • Step 3: Guidewire Insertion - A guidewire is inserted through the sheath and advanced from the access artery into the brachiocephalic trunk or its branches, providing a pathway for subsequent devices.
  • Step 4: Catheter Advancement - A catheter with a balloon tip is advanced over the guidewire to the site of the occlusion. This step is crucial for positioning the balloon at the precise location of the blockage.
  • Step 5: Balloon Inflation - The balloon is inflated, which compresses the plaque against the arterial wall, effectively widening the vessel. This inflation may be repeated multiple times to achieve the desired luminal diameter.
  • Step 6: Angiography Catheter Exchange - After the angioplasty, the angioplasty catheter is exchanged for a guidewire, and an angiography catheter is advanced over the guidewire to assess the results of the procedure.
  • Step 7: Completion Angiography - Contrast material is injected through the angiography catheter, and a completion angiography is performed to ensure that the vessel is patent and that blood flow has been restored.
  • Step 8: Closure - The angiography catheter is withdrawn, and the access artery is repaired. Finally, the skin incision is closed, completing the procedure.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care involves monitoring the patient for any complications that may arise following the angioplasty. Patients are typically observed for signs of bleeding or hematoma at the access site. Additionally, they may require follow-up imaging studies to confirm the success of the procedure and to ensure that the vessel remains patent. Instructions regarding activity restrictions and medication management, including antiplatelet therapy, may also be provided to support recovery and prevent future vascular events.

Short Descr REPAIR ARTERIAL BLOCKAGE
Medium Descr TRLUML BALO ANGIOP OPN BRCH/CPHLC TRNK/BRNCH EA
Long Descr Transluminal balloon angioplasty, open; brachiocephalic trunk or branches, each vessel
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 Hospital Part B services paid through a comprehensive APC
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
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Notes
2016-12-31 Deleted Code deleted. See 36902, 36905, 36907, 37246, 37247, 37248, 37249.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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