CPT code 35311 denotes an open thoracic vascular procedure to remove thrombus and plaque from the subclavian or innominate artery through a chest incision. This surgical intervention is used to restore arterial patency in cases of occlusion that threaten upper extremity or cerebrovascular perfusion. Nationally, the code represents a high-acuity operative service with implications for hospital resource use, perioperative risk management, and specialty reimbursement.

Key payers considered in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise overview of clinical context, typical settings of care, and commonly reported modifiers associated with surgical complexity and professional/technical components. The publication also outlines benchmarks for service utilization, typical billing practices, and relevant policy considerations that affect coverage and prior authorization trends for high-risk thoracic vascular surgery.

This summary is intended for clinician billing staff, vascular surgeons, revenue cycle managers, and policy analysts seeking a national-level briefing on coding and billing characteristics for CPT code 35311, including the clinical rationale for the procedure and areas where payer policies commonly intersect with surgical practice.