35645 Bpg subclavian-vertebral
Also known as: subclavian-vertebral bypass, subclavian-to-vertebral bypass, vertebral revascularization
Arterial bypass graft from subclavian artery to vertebral artery for vertebral artery stenosis or occlusion with posterior circulation insufficiency. Alternative to carotid-vertebral bypass.
In Plain Language
shoulder artery to back-of-brain artery bypass; rerouting blood to the vertebral artery
Clinical Context
Performed for vertebral artery insufficiency when carotid-vertebral bypass is not feasible. Often combined with subclavian transposition.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 17.97 |
| Total RVU | 17.97 |
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 17.97, this code ranks in the 79th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 35645?
CPT 35645 (Bpg subclavian-vertebral) is a Surgery code. Arterial bypass graft from subclavian artery to vertebral artery for vertebral artery stenosis or occlusion with posterior circulation insufficiency. Alternative to carotid-vertebral bypass.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 35645?
The work RVU for CPT 35645 is 17.97. This code is primarily used by Vascular Surgery, Neurovascular Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 35645 used?
Performed for vertebral artery insufficiency when carotid-vertebral bypass is not feasible. Often combined with subclavian transposition.
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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.