CPT® Code 36819

An open arteriovenous anastomosis is a surgical procedure designed to create a connection between an artery and a vein, specifically to facilitate hemodialysis access. This procedure is particularly important for patients with chronic kidney disease who require regular dialysis treatments. The focus of CPT® Code 36819 is on the transposition of the upper arm basilic vein, which is a large vein located in the upper arm. The procedure involves making incisions to expose both the basilic vein and the brachial artery, allowing for a direct connection that enhances blood flow to the dialysis access site. This connection is crucial as it provides a reliable and efficient means for blood to be drawn from the body for dialysis and then returned after the cleansing process. The surgical technique ensures that the basilic vein is adequately assessed for patency and size before being mobilized and repositioned to connect with the brachial artery, thereby optimizing the access point for hemodialysis. This procedure is part of a series of options available for creating vascular access, which may also include the transposition of the cephalic vein or forearm veins, depending on the patient's specific anatomical considerations and needs.