Still Unlisted?

Question:

I hope KZA can provide clarification. In the past, when coding EDAS for treatment of MoyaMoya disease, I used unlisted code 64999 compared to 61711. I have recently seen articles using 61711 only. Which would be the most appropriate code to use?

Answer:

Thank you for asking KZA!

Encephaloduroarteriosynangiosis (EDAS) is an indirect revascularization technique designed to improve blood flow to the brain without directly connecting blood vessels. Because CPT 61711 specifically describes a direct extracranial-to-intracranial arterial anastomosis, this does not accurately reflect EDAS technique.

You have been reporting this correctly. There is no CPT code for this, which is appropriately reported with unlisted CPT 64999.

If you’re seeing 61711 used in articles, it may be due to confusion with direct bypass procedures, such as STA-MCA bypass, which do fall under 61711. For EDAS, however, 64999 remains the most accurate and compliant choice.

*This response is based on the best information available as of 11/06/25.