What is the correct code to report for a bypass around a damaged artery supplying the femoral-popliteal artery using a harvested saphenous vein graft?

The chosen code, 35556, accurately represents the procedure of performing a bypass around a damaged artery to the femoral-popliteal artery using a harvested saphenous vein graft. This code specifically refers to an arterial bypass grafting procedure.

In this context, the procedure involves using a saphenous vein graft, which is a common technique utilized in bypass surgeries, especially when routing blood flow away from a damaged or occluded artery. The femoral-popliteal artery bypass specifically addresses the leg's blood supply, which is crucial in maintaining proper circulation.

The other options do not accurately describe this specific procedure. For instance, 34101 pertains to specific types of bypass surgeries involving the carotid arteries, while 44950 refers to an appendectomy, which is unrelated to vascular procedures. The code 38230 is associated with thoracentesis, again outside the scope of the questioned bypass operation. Hence, 35556 is the appropriate code to use for documenting the pertinent surgical intervention.