35800 Explore neck vessels
Also known as: neck vascular exploration, cervical vessel exploration, carotid exploration
Surgical exploration of neck vessels (arteries and veins) for evaluation, diagnosis, or therapeutic intervention. Provides direct visualization of cervical vasculature.
In Plain Language
surgical opening of the neck to examine blood vessels; looking directly at neck arteries
Clinical Context
Performed for carotid atherosclerosis, aneurysm, trauma, or thrombosis diagnosis and management.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 11.70 |
| Total RVU | 11.70 |
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 11.70, this code ranks in the 64th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.5x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 35800?
CPT 35800 (Explore neck vessels) is a Surgery code. Surgical exploration of neck vessels (arteries and veins) for evaluation, diagnosis, or therapeutic intervention. Provides direct visualization of cervical vasculature.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 35800?
The work RVU for CPT 35800 is 11.70. This code is primarily used by Vascular Surgery, Neurovascular Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 35800 used?
Performed for carotid atherosclerosis, aneurysm, trauma, or thrombosis diagnosis and management.
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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.