35515 Artery byp graft subclav-vertbrl
Also known as: subclavian-vertebral bypass, SV bypass
Arterial bypass graft from subclavian to vertebral artery with restoration of posterior circulation perfusion.
In Plain Language
Bypass from shoulder to back neck artery; Restoring posterior brain blood flow
Clinical Context
Revascularization for vertebral artery stenosis or occlusion causing vertebrobasilar insufficiency symptoms. Less common approach; reserved for patients without other viable options.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 25.44 |
| Total RVU | 25.44 |
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 25.44, this code ranks in the 89th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 35515?
CPT 35515 (Artery byp graft subclav-vertbrl) is a Surgery code. Arterial bypass graft from subclavian to vertebral artery with restoration of posterior circulation perfusion.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 35515?
The work RVU for CPT 35515 is 25.44. This code is primarily used by Vascular Surgery, Neurosurgery, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 35515 used?
Revascularization for vertebral artery stenosis or occlusion causing vertebrobasilar insufficiency symptoms. Less common approach; reserved for patients without other viable options.
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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.