CPT® Code 35516

A subclavian-axillary bypass graft is a surgical procedure designed to create an alternative pathway for blood flow around a diseased or obstructed segment of the axillary artery, which is located on the same side of the body as the affected area. This procedure is particularly important for restoring adequate blood circulation to the arm and shoulder region when the axillary artery is compromised. The surgery involves making incisions in two locations: one at the base of the neck, just above the clavicle, to access the subclavian artery, and another in the chest, just below the collarbone, to expose the axillary artery. The surgeon meticulously dissects the soft tissue to reveal these arteries and then creates a tunnel that connects them. A vein graft, often harvested from the saphenous vein in the leg, is used to bypass the obstructed section. The procedure requires careful handling of the vascular structures, including the application of vascular clamps to control blood flow during the grafting process. Once the graft is in place, the surgeon checks for proper blood flow and the patency of the bypass to ensure that the procedure has been successful in restoring circulation.