35521 Artery byp graft axill-femoral
Also known as: axillofemoral bypass, AxFem bypass
Arterial bypass graft from axillary to femoral artery with restoration of lower extremity blood flow.
In Plain Language
Bypass from armpit to groin artery; Restoring leg blood supply
Clinical Context
Revascularization for aortoiliac occlusive disease when aortofemoral bypass not feasible (hostile abdomen, reoperation). Excellent extraanatomic alternative with lower operative risk.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 23.53 |
| Total RVU | 23.53 |
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 23.53, this code ranks in the 87th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.9x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 35521?
CPT 35521 (Artery byp graft axill-femoral) is a Surgery code. Arterial bypass graft from axillary to femoral artery with restoration of lower extremity blood flow.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 35521?
The work RVU for CPT 35521 is 23.53. This code is primarily used by Vascular Surgery, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 35521 used?
Revascularization for aortoiliac occlusive disease when aortofemoral bypass not feasible (hostile abdomen, reoperation). Excellent extraanatomic alternative with lower operative risk.
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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.