CPT code 35303 designates a vascular surgical procedure to remove thrombus and atherosclerotic plaque from the popliteal artery. This procedure restores perfusion to the lower extremity and can be performed emergently for acute limb ischemia or electively for obstructive peripheral arterial disease. Nationally, procedures addressing peripheral arterial occlusion have implications for vascular surgery utilization, limb-salvage rates, and hospital resource use.

Key payers covered in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise overview of clinical context, typical sites of service, and the types of documentation and coding considerations tied to CPT code 35303.

This publication summarizes benchmarks and payment context where available, highlights relevant policy and coverage considerations that affect billing for popliteal artery thromboembolectomy/endarterectomy, and outlines common documentation elements that support medical necessity. Data not available in the input is noted where applicable. The goal is to provide a clear national-level briefing for coding, billing, and clinical stakeholders involved in vascular surgical care.