In simple words: This surgical procedure involves removing a blood clot from a connection between an artery and a vein (an arteriovenous fistula) used for dialysis. The connection itself isn't repaired or changed during this procedure.

This CPT code represents the surgical removal of a blood clot (thrombectomy) from an arteriovenous (AV) fistula without requiring a revision of the fistula itself.The fistula may be autogenous (from the patient's own body) or nonautogenous (a graft). This procedure is distinct and should not be reported with related procedures performed through the same incision.The procedure involves opening the fistula, clamping the artery and vein to stop blood flow, removing the clot, flushing the graft, restoring blood flow, and closing the incision.

Example 1: A 65-year-old male dialysis patient presents with decreased blood flow through his AV fistula.A thrombectomy (36831) is performed to restore patency without requiring fistula revision., A 70-year-old female dialysis patient experiences a complete occlusion of her AV fistula.Surgical thrombectomy (36831) is performed to remove the clot.No revision of the fistula is necessary., A 58-year-old male patient develops a clot in his newly created AV fistula.An open thrombectomy (36831) is performed to remove the clot and restore flow. No revision of the fistula is needed.

Preoperative assessment of the fistula, intraoperative findings (size and location of the clot), amount of clot removed, restoration of blood flow, and postoperative assessment of fistula function.Imaging studies (e.g., ultrasound) may be needed to confirm the clot and assess fistula patency before and after the procedure.

** Accurate documentation is crucial for appropriate coding and reimbursement.The use of 36831 is contingent on the absence of fistula revision.If a revision is needed, codes 36832 or 36833 should be reported.