35518 Artery byp graft axillary-axilry
Also known as: axillary-axillary bypass, AA bypass
Arterial bypass graft from axillary to axillary artery with restoration of contralateral upper extremity blood flow.
In Plain Language
Bypass between armpit arteries; Connecting upper arm arteries on opposite sides
Clinical Context
Revascularization for bilateral axillary/brachial artery disease when subclavian approach not feasible. Maintains hemodynamic continuity across disease.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 22.08 |
| Total RVU | 22.08 |
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 22.08, this code ranks in the 85th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.8x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 35518?
CPT 35518 (Artery byp graft axillary-axilry) is a Surgery code. Arterial bypass graft from axillary to axillary artery with restoration of contralateral upper extremity blood flow.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 35518?
The work RVU for CPT 35518 is 22.08. This code is primarily used by Vascular Surgery, General Surgery, Hand Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 35518 used?
Revascularization for bilateral axillary/brachial artery disease when subclavian approach not feasible. Maintains hemodynamic continuity across disease.
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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.