CPT code 35616 represents an open vascular bypass procedure using a synthetic graft to connect the subclavian artery to the axillary artery and bypass a proximal arterial occlusion. This procedure is clinically important for restoring upper-extremity arterial inflow when medical therapy or endovascular measures are insufficient or infeasible. Nationally, it affects hospital vascular surgery services, resource utilization in operating rooms, and post-operative inpatient care.

Key payers covered in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find benchmarks for utilization and payment practices across major payers, clinical context that explains when surgical subclavian–axillary bypass is indicated, and policy-relevant considerations affecting coverage and site-of-service decisions. The publication outlines typical sites of service, expected clinical workflow, and common billing elements associated with the procedure. Data not available in the input is identified where applicable. This summary is intended for hospital administrators, billing and coding professionals, and vascular clinicians seeking a concise, national-level overview of CPT code 35616 and its implications for care delivery and reimbursement.