Medicare AdvantageBilling CodesHigh impact
MA11.062d, Endovascular Stent Graft Repair of Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms and Nonaneurysmal Lesions
Independence Blue Cross·Cardiothoracic Surgery, Vascular Surgery, Radiology·Medical Policy
Effective date
Jan 1, 2026
We identified it
Jun 19, 2026
Summary
Independence Blue Cross updated MA11.062d to reflect annual CPT code changes effective 01/01/2026. Three CPT codes (33880, 33881, 33883) had narrative revisions; two new codes (33882, 35602) were added for endovascular thoracic aorta repair; and three codes (33884, 33889, 33891) were terminated. Coverage criteria remain unchanged—endovascular stent graft repair for descending thoracic aortic aneurysms, nonaneurysmal lesions, and rupture remain covered when FDA-approved devices are used.
Action Required
By December 31, 2025: Billing team must update coding system to reflect CPT code changes. (1) Remove CPT codes 33884, 33889, and 33891 from all billing templates and system configurations—claims using these codes will be denied after 01/01/2026. (2) Add new CPT codes 33882 and 35602 to billing software with descriptor 'Endovascular repair of thoracic aorta' and link to prior authorization and documentation requirements. (3) Verify that CPT codes 33880, 33881, and 33883 are correctly mapped with updated narratives in the system. (4) Provider education: Distribute updated coding guidance to all cardiothoracic and vascular surgery providers to ensure they use correct codes for claims submitted on or after 01/01/2026. (5) Audit pending claims: Review any claims submitted in December 2025 using terminated codes and resubmit with correct codes before cutoff. Failure to implement these changes will result in claim denials and revenue loss.