EVAR Procedure

Hi,

I have a cardiovascular surgeon who performs tons of these procedures, and he codes 34812 for the exposure of the femoral arteries to cannulate for the EVAR procedure. However, he always wants me to code 35226 for the repair of his puncture into the artery. He says there is no bundling issue, but I keep trying to explain that coding 34812 also includes the closure of the wound, and code 35226 is for a repair of a wound/injury artery. He states it is wounded due to the puncture. Does anybody know of a site that has some clarification regarding this? I personally don't think he should bill it, but he is putting a ton of pressure on me and I am new to this physician's group. I appreciate any and all help!

Rich

re: EVAR Procedure

This is not my specialty but I was curios. Per Codemanger which is owned by AMA. CPT® 34812 includes closer and has a 90 day post op period.

re: EVAR Procedure

I forgot to give you this: https://www.cookmedical.com/data/resources/productReferences/AI-BUSM-TX2CR-EN-201302.PDF

check it out.

re: EVAR Procedure

Thank you very much!

Rich