34715 Opn ax/subcla artery expos
Also known as: open axillary exposure, open subclavian exposure, axillary cutdown
Open axillary or subclavian artery exposure for catheter-based vascular procedures. Surgical exposure of upper extremity arterial access.
In Plain Language
surgical cut to access shoulder artery for catheter
Clinical Context
Used when iliac/femoral access is unavailable or diseased. Provides alternative access for EVAR or other endovascular repair.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 5.85 |
| Total RVU | 5.85 |
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. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 5.85, this code ranks in the 39th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.4x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 34715?
CPT 34715 (Opn ax/subcla artery expos) is a Surgery code. Open axillary or subclavian artery exposure for catheter-based vascular procedures. Surgical exposure of upper extremity arterial access.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 34715?
The work RVU for CPT 34715 is 5.85. This code is primarily used by Vascular Surgery, Interventional Radiology.
When is CPT 34715 used?
Used when iliac/femoral access is unavailable or diseased. Provides alternative access for EVAR or other endovascular repair.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against MGMA data — all in one app.
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.