How To Use CPT Code 33506

CPT 33506 describes the procedure for repairing an anomalous coronary artery by translocating it from the pulmonary artery to the aorta. This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 33506?

CPT 33506 can be used to describe the surgical procedure performed to repair an anomalous coronary artery. In this procedure, the provider relocates the coronary artery from its origin in the pulmonary artery to the aorta. This is done to restore circulation to the heart and prevent or correct congestive heart failure, typically in infants with congenital heart defects.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 33506 is: ‘Repair of anomalous coronary artery from pulmonary artery origin; by translocation from pulmonary artery to aorta.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making an incision in the chest, typically a median sternotomy.
2. If necessary, the patient may be placed on cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) to maintain circulation during the procedure.
3. The provider then identifies the anomalous coronary artery origin in the pulmonary artery.
4. The anomalous coronary artery opening on the pulmonary artery is excised or cut out.
5. An incision is made in the aorta, and the provider implants the coronary artery into the aorta.
6. The opening in the pulmonary artery is closed or patched using tissue from the pericardium or a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTF) graft.
7. If the patient was placed on CPB, they are removed from it at this time.
8. The provider checks for any bleeding, removes any instruments, and closes the incision in the chest.

4. Qualifying circumstances

Patients who require CPT 33506 are those with an anomalous coronary artery that needs to be repaired. This procedure is typically performed on infants with congenital heart defects. The provider must determine the need for the procedure based on the patient’s condition and medical history.

5. When to use CPT code 33506

CPT code 33506 should be used when a provider performs the procedure to repair an anomalous coronary artery by translocating it from the pulmonary artery to the aorta. This code should be used for each instance of the procedure performed.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 33506, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for the procedure
• Details of the procedure performed, including the incisions made, use of CPB if applicable, and closure of the incisions
• Any complications or unexpected findings during the procedure
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 33506, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria outlined in the official description. If the procedure is performed in conjunction with other procedures, do not report modifier 63 with CPT 33506. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate billing and reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 33506 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2006. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition. However, it is important to stay updated with any changes or revisions to the code in the future.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs CPT 33506 to repair an anomalous coronary artery in an infant with a congenital heart defect.
2. During a surgical procedure, the provider translocates the coronary artery from the pulmonary artery to the aorta in a patient with a diagnosed anomalous coronary artery.
3. CPT 33506 is used when a provider performs the repair of an anomalous coronary artery by translocating it from the pulmonary artery to the aorta in a patient with congestive heart failure.
4. In an infant with a congenital heart defect, the provider performs CPT 33506 to restore circulation to the heart by relocating the anomalous coronary artery.
5. A patient with an anomalous coronary artery undergoes CPT 33506 to prevent or correct congestive heart failure.
6. During a surgical procedure, the provider repairs an anomalous coronary artery by translocating it from the pulmonary artery to the aorta using CPT 33506.
7. CPT 33506 is used when a provider performs the procedure to restore circulation to the heart in a patient with an anomalous coronary artery.
8. In an infant with a congenital heart defect, the provider performs CPT 33506 to correct the anomalous coronary artery and prevent congestive heart failure.
9. A patient with a diagnosed anomalous coronary artery undergoes CPT 33506 to repair the artery and improve heart function.
10. The provider performs CPT 33506 to translocate the anomalous coronary artery from the pulmonary artery to the aorta in a patient with a congenital heart defect.