CPT® Code 35533

An axillary-femoral-femoral bypass graft is a surgical procedure designed to reroute blood flow around a diseased or obstructed segment of the aorta and/or iliac arteries. This procedure is particularly important in cases where blood flow is compromised due to vascular disease, which can lead to significant complications if not addressed. The term "bypass graft" refers to the use of a vein graft to create a new pathway for blood to travel, effectively bypassing the obstructed area. The procedure involves making incisions in both the chest and groin to access the axillary and femoral arteries, respectively. The surgical team meticulously dissects soft tissue to expose these arteries, allowing for the creation of tunnels through which the vein graft will be placed. The harvesting of the vein graft, often from the saphenous vein in the leg, is a critical step, as it provides the necessary conduit for the bypass. The successful completion of this procedure is assessed by checking blood flow through the graft and evaluating distal pulses to ensure that the bypass is functioning properly and that blood is being delivered effectively to the lower extremities.