In simple words: This code is used when a heart bypass or valve surgery needs to be done again more than a month after the first surgery, usually because the first surgery didn't work. It's used along with the code for the repeat surgery itself, to account for the extra work involved in operating on tissue that has already healed from a prior surgery.

This code describes a reoperation, performed more than one month after the original surgery, for a coronary artery bypass procedure or a heart valve procedure. It is used when the initial operation has failed and requires a repeat procedure. This code should be reported in addition to the code for the primary procedure being repeated. The increased difficulty due to scar tissue and healing from the previous surgery is factored into this code.

Example 1: A patient who underwent a coronary artery bypass graft six months prior presents with recurrent angina due to graft failure. The surgeon performs a redo coronary artery bypass grafting procedure. Code 33530 is reported in addition to the code for the repeat bypass procedure., A patient's mitral valve replacement, performed three months prior, fails. The surgeon performs a reoperation to replace the malfunctioning valve. Code 33530 is reported along with the code for the repeat valve replacement., A patient develops a severe infection following aortic valve replacement one month prior. The infected valve is removed, and a new valve is placed during a reoperation. Code 33530 is reported with the code for the repeat valve replacement procedure.

Operative report detailing the reoperation, including the reason for the reoperation, the original procedure date, and the details of the repeat procedure. Documentation of the increased complexity due to prior surgery should also be included.

** As of December 1st, 2024, this information is current. However, medical coding guidelines are subject to change. Always refer to the most up-to-date CPT manual for accurate coding and billing practices.