35616 Bpg subclavian-axillary
Also known as: subclavian-axillary bypass, subclavian-to-axillary bypass, proximal subclavian bypass
Arterial bypass graft from subclavian artery to axillary artery for proximal subclavian stenosis or occlusion. Provides collateral circulation to the arm and hand.
In Plain Language
shoulder to upper arm artery bypass; rerouting blood around a blocked shoulder artery
Clinical Context
Indicated for symptomatic subclavian artery disease not amenable to endovascular therapy, vertebral steal syndrome, or compromised dialysis access. Less commonly performed than transposition.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 21.27 |
| Total RVU | 21.27 |
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 21.27, this code ranks in the 84th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.7x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 35616?
CPT 35616 (Bpg subclavian-axillary) is a Surgery code. Arterial bypass graft from subclavian artery to axillary artery for proximal subclavian stenosis or occlusion. Provides collateral circulation to the arm and hand.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 35616?
The work RVU for CPT 35616 is 21.27. This code is primarily used by Vascular Surgery, Thoracic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 35616 used?
Indicated for symptomatic subclavian artery disease not amenable to endovascular therapy, vertebral steal syndrome, or compromised dialysis access. Less commonly performed than transposition.
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.