35538 Artery byp graft aortobi-iliac
Also known as: aorto-bifemoral bypass, bilateral iliac bypass
Arterial bypass graft from aorta to bilateral iliac arteries with restoration of bilateral lower extremity blood flow.
In Plain Language
Bypass from main artery to both hip arteries; Restoring blood flow to both legs
Clinical Context
Revascularization for bilateral iliac stenosis or occlusion causing claudication or critical limb ischemia. Excellent long-term patency with direct aortic inflow.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 45.85 |
| Total RVU | 45.85 |
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. 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 45.85, this code ranks in the 98th percentile among Surgery codes — 5.7x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 35538?
CPT 35538 (Artery byp graft aortobi-iliac) is a Surgery code. Arterial bypass graft from aorta to bilateral iliac arteries with restoration of bilateral lower extremity blood flow.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 35538?
The work RVU for CPT 35538 is 45.85. This code is primarily used by Vascular Surgery, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 35538 used?
Revascularization for bilateral iliac stenosis or occlusion causing claudication or critical limb ischemia. Excellent long-term patency with direct aortic inflow.
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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.