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The CPT® Code 35472 refers to a specific medical procedure known as percutaneous transluminal balloon angioplasty of the aorta. This procedure is performed to treat occlusions or blockages in the aorta, which is the main artery supplying blood to the body. During the procedure, a physician accesses the aorta through the skin, typically using one of the femoral arteries located in the groin area. The process begins with the preparation of the skin and puncturing of the artery with a needle to gain access. A sheath is then inserted into the artery to facilitate the introduction of other instruments. A guidewire is advanced through the sheath into the aorta, allowing for the placement of a catheter equipped with a balloon tip. This balloon is positioned at the site of the blockage and inflated to compress the plaque against the arterial wall, thereby widening the artery and restoring blood flow. The balloon may be inflated multiple times to achieve optimal results. Following the angioplasty, an angiography catheter is used to inject contrast material and perform imaging to confirm that the artery is open and functioning properly. The procedure concludes with the application of pressure to the puncture site to prevent bleeding, followed by the placement of a pressure dressing. This detailed description highlights the technical aspects of the procedure while ensuring clarity for medical coders and healthcare professionals involved in the coding and billing process.
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The procedure described by CPT® Code 35472 is indicated for patients experiencing occlusions or significant blockages in the aorta. These conditions may lead to reduced blood flow and can result in various complications. The following are specific indications for performing this procedure:
The procedure for CPT® Code 35472 involves several critical steps to ensure successful angioplasty of the aorta. Each step is essential for achieving the desired outcome of restoring blood flow through the affected artery:
After the completion of the angioplasty procedure, several post-procedure care steps are essential to ensure patient safety and recovery. The physician will monitor the patient for any signs of complications, such as bleeding or infection at the puncture site. Patients are typically advised to rest and may be instructed to limit physical activity for a specified period to allow for proper healing. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to assess the success of the procedure and to monitor the patient's recovery. Additionally, patients may receive instructions regarding medication management, including antiplatelet therapy, to prevent future occlusions. Overall, careful post-procedure management is crucial for optimizing patient outcomes following aortic balloon angioplasty.
| Short Descr | REPAIR ARTERIAL BLOCKAGE | Medium Descr | TRLUML BALLOON ANGIOPLASTY PERCUTANEOUS AORTIC | Long Descr | Transluminal balloon angioplasty, percutaneous; 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) | 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies 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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