2025 CPT code 33617
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Surgery - Surgical Procedures on the Cardiovascular System Feed
Repair of complex cardiac anomalies (e.g., single ventricle) by modified Fontan procedure.
Modifiers may apply based on specific circumstances (e.g., increased procedural services, assistant surgeon).
Medical necessity is established by the severity of the cardiac anomaly and its impact on the patient’s circulatory system and overall health. The modified Fontan aims to improve blood oxygenation and cardiac function.
The surgeon performs the procedure after the patient is prepped and anesthetized. It requires cardiopulmonary bypass. Steps include dividing the superior vena cava, connecting it to the right pulmonary artery, potentially creating an atrial baffle, closing incisions, and weaning the patient off bypass.
In simple words: This procedure helps reroute blood flow in babies and children born with heart defects where one of the lower heart chambers (ventricles) doesn't work properly. The surgeon creates a new pathway for blood to flow to the lungs to get oxygen, bypassing the faulty chamber.Sometimes, a small wall is built inside the heart to help direct the blood flow better.
This code describes a modified Fontan procedure for complex cardiac anomalies, often involving a single ventricle. It involves creating a direct connection between the superior vena cava and the pulmonary artery to allow blood to bypass the atrium. A baffle (dividing wall) may be created within the atrium to improve blood flow to the superior vena cava opening.
Example 1: A newborn with tricuspid atresia undergoes a modified Fontan procedure to establish a more efficient pathway for blood to flow to the lungs., A child with hypoplastic left heart syndrome requires a modified Fontan procedure as a staged surgical intervention to improve oxygenation., A young adult with a complex single ventricle heart defect and failing prior Fontan undergoes revision with a modified Fontan technique.
Documentation should include operative details, type of modified Fontan, pre- and post-operative diagnoses, any associated defects, and any complications.
- Revenue Code: P2F: MAJOR PROCEDURE, CARDIOVASCULAR - OTHER
- Global Days: Global Days: 90
- Specialties:Cardiothoracic Surgery, Pediatric Cardiology
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital