35870 Repair vessel graft defect
Also known as: graft defect repair, graft thrombectomy, anastomotic repair
Repair of vascular graft defect, including thrombectomy, patch angioplasty, or graft segment replacement. Restores graft integrity and patency.
In Plain Language
fixing problems with a bypass graft; removing clots or fixing narrow spots in a graft
Clinical Context
Performed for graft stenosis, thrombosis, rupture, or pseudoaneurysm at anastomosis.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 23.89 |
| Total RVU | 23.89 |
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 23.89, this code ranks in the 87th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.0x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 35870?
CPT 35870 (Repair vessel graft defect) is a Surgery code. Repair of vascular graft defect, including thrombectomy, patch angioplasty, or graft segment replacement. Restores graft integrity and patency.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 35870?
The work RVU for CPT 35870 is 23.89. This code is primarily used by Vascular Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 35870 used?
Performed for graft stenosis, thrombosis, rupture, or pseudoaneurysm at anastomosis.
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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.