CPT® Code 35551

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An aortofemoral-popliteal bypass graft, designated by CPT® Code 35551, is a surgical procedure aimed at restoring blood flow in patients with significant arterial obstruction. This procedure involves the creation of a bypass route using a vein graft to circumvent blocked segments of the aorta and iliac arteries, as well as the femoral artery, ultimately connecting to the popliteal artery located behind the knee. The operation begins with an incision in the abdomen to access the aorta, followed by mobilization of the small intestine and opening of the retroperitoneum to expose the aorta. A tunnel is then created from the aorta over the iliac artery, facilitating the connection to the femoral artery through a groin incision. The procedure requires careful dissection and exposure of the arteries involved, ensuring that the graft can be properly placed. The vein graft, often harvested from the saphenous vein in the leg, is meticulously prepared and anastomosed to both the aorta and the popliteal artery. This complex surgical intervention is critical for patients suffering from peripheral vascular disease, as it aims to restore adequate blood flow to the lower extremities, thereby alleviating symptoms and preventing complications associated with poor circulation.