34451 Removal of vein clot
Also known as: vena cava thrombectomy, IVC thrombectomy, SVC thrombectomy
Removal of a venous thrombus or embolus from the vena cava (superior or inferior). Surgical extraction of blood clot from the vena cava.
In Plain Language
removing blood clot from main vein to heart
Clinical Context
Rare procedure for acute thrombosis of the vena cava. Often used in life-threatening presentations with impending hemodynamic collapse.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 27.81 |
| Total RVU | 27.81 |
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 27.81, this code ranks in the 91st percentile among Surgery codes — 3.5x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 34451?
CPT 34451 (Removal of vein clot) is a Surgery code. Removal of a venous thrombus or embolus from the vena cava (superior or inferior). Surgical extraction of blood clot from the vena cava.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 34451?
The work RVU for CPT 34451 is 27.81. This code is primarily used by Vascular Surgery, Cardiovascular Surgery, Critical Care. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 34451 used?
Rare procedure for acute thrombosis of the vena cava. Often used in life-threatening presentations with impending hemodynamic collapse.
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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.