34001 Removal of artery clot
Also known as: aortic thrombectomy, aortic embolectomy, aortic clot removal
Removal of an arterial thrombus or embolus from the aorta. Surgical extraction of blood clot from the aortic vessel.
In Plain Language
removing blood clot from main artery; clearing blockage in aorta
Clinical Context
Performed for acute aortic thrombosis or embolism causing acute limb ischemia or aortic occlusion. Often requires emergency intervention.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 17.43 |
| Total RVU | 17.43 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. This code has a 90-day global period, which includes the day of the procedure, 1 day preoperative, and 90 days of postoperative care. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 17.43, this code ranks in the 78th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 34001?
CPT 34001 (Removal of artery clot) is a Surgery code. Removal of an arterial thrombus or embolus from the aorta. Surgical extraction of blood clot from the aortic vessel.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 34001?
The work RVU for CPT 34001 is 17.43. This code is primarily used by Vascular Surgery, Cardiovascular Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 34001 used?
Performed for acute aortic thrombosis or embolism causing acute limb ischemia or aortic occlusion. Often requires emergency intervention.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.