2025 CPT code 33608
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Surgery - Cardiovascular System Feed
Repair of a complex cardiac anomaly (other than pulmonary atresia with ventricular septal defect) by constructing or replacing a conduit from the right or left ventricle to the pulmonary artery.
Modifiers may be applicable to indicate specific circumstances, such as increased procedural services (modifier 22) or the involvement of multiple surgeons (modifier 62). Refer to current CPT coding guidelines for appropriate modifier usage.
Medical necessity for this procedure must be established through documentation of the severe impact of the cardiac anomaly on the patient's health, such as compromised blood flow to the lungs leading to cyanosis, shortness of breath, or developmental delays. The chosen procedure must be the most appropriate surgical intervention to address the specific anomaly and improve the patient's condition.
The surgeon performs this complex procedure, which requires specialized training and expertise in cardiovascular surgery. The procedure includes opening the chest, connecting the patient to a heart-lung machine, creating the conduit, and meticulously connecting it to the ventricle and pulmonary artery to ensure proper blood flow.
In simple words: This procedure fixes a complicated heart defect, not including a specific type called pulmonary atresia with VSD.The surgeon creates a new path for blood to flow from the heart’s lower chamber to the artery leading to the lungs, using tubes or other materials. This helps the blood get to the lungs to pick up oxygen.
This code describes a surgical procedure to repair a complex heart defect, excluding pulmonary atresia with ventricular septal defect, by creating a new pathway or replacing an existing one to connect a ventricle (either right or left) to the pulmonary artery. This procedure aims to restore proper blood flow from the heart to the lungs.The surgeon may use various techniques like tube grafts or conduits to establish this connection. This often involves cardiopulmonary bypass and intricate work within the heart's structures, such as attaching grafts, creating openings in the ventricle and pulmonary artery, and ensuring adequate blood flow before closing the incisions.
Example 1: A newborn is diagnosed with a complex congenital heart defect that obstructs blood flow from the right ventricle to the pulmonary artery. Code 33608 is used when the surgeon creates a conduit to bypass the obstruction., A child with a single ventricle heart defect requires a surgical procedure to redirect blood flow. Code 33608 is applicable when a conduit is constructed to connect the ventricle to the pulmonary artery., A patient has a congenital heart defect where the connection between the left ventricle and the pulmonary artery is underdeveloped. Code 33608 is used when a conduit is placed to facilitate blood flow.
Operative report detailing the specific anomaly, the type of conduit used, the surgical technique employed, and any intraoperative complications. Preoperative imaging studies (e.g., echocardiogram, cardiac MRI) confirming the diagnosis and the need for surgical intervention. Postoperative reports documenting the patient's status and the success of the procedure.
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Cardiothoracic Surgery, Pediatric Cardiology
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital