CPT® Code 35460

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This procedure, known as transluminal balloon angioplasty or venoplasty, is a minimally invasive technique used to treat occlusions in veins. The term "transluminal" refers to the procedure being performed within the lumen of the vein, while "balloon angioplasty" indicates the use of a balloon to open up the narrowed or blocked area. The procedure begins with the preparation of the skin over the access vein, which is then incised to expose the vein. A small nick is made in the vein to facilitate the placement of a sheath, which serves as a conduit for further instruments. A guidewire is then inserted and advanced through the sheath into the occluded section of the vein. Once the guidewire is in place, a catheter equipped with a balloon tip is threaded over the guidewire and navigated to the site of the blockage. The balloon is inflated, which compresses the plaque or obstruction against the vein wall, thereby widening the vessel and restoring blood flow. This inflation may be repeated multiple times to achieve optimal results. After the angioplasty is completed, the angioplasty catheter is exchanged for a guidewire, and a venography catheter is introduced to assess the success of the procedure. A contrast agent is injected to perform a completion venogram, which visualizes the vein and confirms that it is patent. Finally, the venography catheter is removed, the access vein is repaired, and the skin incision is closed, completing the procedure.