How To Use CPT Code 33535

CPT 33535 describes the procedure for coronary artery bypass using three arterial grafts. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 33535?

CPT 33535 is used to describe a specific surgical procedure known as coronary artery bypass. This procedure involves diverting blood flow from damaged vessels in the heart by grafting in three arterial segments from another location, such as in the chest or abdomen. The purpose of this procedure is to restore circulation, improve the function of the heart, and decrease symptoms like angina.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 33535 is: ‘Coronary artery bypass, using arterial graft(s); 3 coronary arterial grafts.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making a midline sternotomy incision through the breastbone.
2. Aortic and venous cannulas are inserted to establish cardiopulmonary bypass, or machine circulation.
3. A cardioplegia solution is injected to stop the heart for the procedure.
4. The provider harvests three arterial graft segments, typically from the left and right internal mammary arteries in the chest.
5. The arterial segments are grafted to appropriate locations on the sides of the diseased vessels.
6. If a free graft is used, the other end is attached to a hole punched in the aorta.
7. The patient is weaned off the bypass pump.
8. The provider irrigates the area, checks for bleeding, removes any instruments, and closes the incision in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 33535 is performed on patients who require coronary artery bypass surgery using three arterial grafts. This procedure is typically indicated for patients with severe coronary artery disease or blockages in the heart’s blood vessels. The patient’s condition must be assessed by a qualified healthcare professional to determine the need for this specific procedure.

5. When to use CPT code 33535

CPT code 33535 should be used when a provider performs coronary artery bypass surgery using three arterial grafts. It is important to accurately document the number and type of grafts used in the procedure. This code should not be used for other types of coronary artery bypass procedures or when a different number of arterial grafts are used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 33535, the provider must document the following information:

• The patient’s diagnosis and the need for coronary artery bypass surgery
• The number and type of arterial grafts used in the procedure
• A detailed description of the surgical technique and steps performed
• Any complications or additional procedures performed during the surgery
• The date and duration of the procedure
• The provider’s signature and credentials

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 33535, ensure that the procedure performed matches the description of the code. It is important to accurately document the number and type of arterial grafts used in the surgery. CPT code 33535 should not be reported with other codes that describe different types of coronary artery bypass procedures. It is also important to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by insurance companies or payers.

8. Historical information

CPT code 33535 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1993. The code underwent a change on January 1, 2010, to specify the use of three coronary arterial grafts. It is important to stay updated on any changes or revisions to the code.

9. Examples

1. A patient with severe coronary artery disease undergoes coronary artery bypass surgery using three arterial grafts to restore blood flow to the heart.
2. A provider performs coronary artery bypass surgery using three arterial grafts on a patient with multiple blockages in the heart’s blood vessels.
3. A patient with angina pectoris undergoes coronary artery bypass surgery using three arterial grafts to alleviate symptoms and improve heart function.
4. A provider performs coronary artery bypass surgery using three arterial grafts on a patient with a history of heart disease and previous blockages.
5. A patient with a high risk of heart attack undergoes coronary artery bypass surgery using three arterial grafts as a preventive measure.
6. A provider performs coronary artery bypass surgery using three arterial grafts on a patient with a family history of heart disease.
7. A patient with limited blood flow to the heart undergoes coronary artery bypass surgery using three arterial grafts to improve circulation.
8. A provider performs coronary artery bypass surgery using three arterial grafts on a patient with recurring chest pain and blockages in the heart’s blood vessels.
9. A patient with a previous heart attack undergoes coronary artery bypass surgery using three arterial grafts to reduce the risk of future cardiac events.
10. A provider performs coronary artery bypass surgery using three arterial grafts on a patient with significant narrowing of the heart’s blood vessels.