How To Use CPT Code 33572

CPT 33572 describes the procedure for coronary endarterectomy, which involves the removal of plaque from the lining of the coronary arteries during a coronary artery bypass graft procedure. 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 33572?

CPT 33572 is a code used to describe the procedure of coronary endarterectomy. This procedure involves the removal of plaque from the lining of the coronary arteries during a coronary artery bypass graft procedure. It is performed in conjunction with the primary procedure and is listed separately. The code should be used for each vessel that undergoes the endarterectomy.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 33572 is: ‘Coronary endarterectomy, open, any method, of left anterior descending, circumflex, or right coronary artery performed in conjunction with coronary artery bypass graft procedure, each vessel (List separately in addition to primary procedure).’ This code should be used in conjunction with other specific codes related to the primary procedure.

3. Procedure

1. During a coronary artery bypass graft procedure, the healthcare provider accesses the left anterior descending, circumflex, or right coronary artery.
2. An incision is made in the vessel, and the plaque that is causing the obstruction is removed.
3. The healthcare provider may repeat this process for multiple vessels if necessary.
4. After removing the plaque, the provider cleanses the vessel and closes the incisions in the arteries.
5. The patient is then removed from cardiopulmonary bypass, which was previously established for the coronary artery bypass graft procedure.
6. The provider checks for any bleeding, removes any instruments, and closes the incision in the chest.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 33572 is performed in conjunction with a coronary artery bypass graft procedure. It is used when there is a need to remove plaque from the left anterior descending, circumflex, or right coronary artery. The procedure is typically performed to improve blood flow in the coronary arteries and prevent complications such as infarction. It is important to note that this procedure should only be performed by a qualified healthcare provider with the necessary expertise and training.

5. When to use CPT code 33572

CPT code 33572 should be used when a coronary endarterectomy is performed in conjunction with a coronary artery bypass graft procedure. It is important to list this code separately for each vessel that undergoes the endarterectomy. This code should not be used if the endarterectomy is performed as a standalone procedure without the coronary artery bypass graft.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 33572, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Details of the coronary artery bypass graft procedure
• Specific vessels that underwent the endarterectomy
• Description of the endarterectomy procedure, including any complications or additional steps taken
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Any additional procedures performed during the same session
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 33572, it is important to ensure that the procedure is performed in conjunction with a coronary artery bypass graft procedure. The code should be listed separately for each vessel that undergoes the endarterectomy. It is also important to follow any specific guidelines or requirements set by the payer. It is recommended to review the payer’s policies and guidelines to ensure accurate and appropriate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT 33572 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1995. The code has not undergone any updates or changes since its addition. It is important to use the most up-to-date version of the CPT code set when reporting this procedure.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes a coronary artery bypass graft procedure, and during the same session, the healthcare provider performs a coronary endarterectomy on the left anterior descending artery.
2. During a coronary artery bypass graft procedure, the healthcare provider performs a coronary endarterectomy on both the circumflex and right coronary arteries.
3. A patient undergoes a coronary artery bypass graft procedure, and the healthcare provider performs a coronary endarterectomy on the left anterior descending artery and the circumflex artery.
4. During a coronary artery bypass graft procedure, the healthcare provider performs a coronary endarterectomy on the right coronary artery and two additional vessels.
5. A patient undergoes a coronary artery bypass graft procedure, and the healthcare provider performs a coronary endarterectomy on the left anterior descending artery and the right coronary artery.
6. During a coronary artery bypass graft procedure, the healthcare provider performs a coronary endarterectomy on the circumflex artery and two additional vessels.
7. A patient undergoes a coronary artery bypass graft procedure, and the healthcare provider performs a coronary endarterectomy on the left anterior descending artery, circumflex artery, and right coronary artery.
8. During a coronary artery bypass graft procedure, the healthcare provider performs a coronary endarterectomy on the left anterior descending artery and three additional vessels.
9. A patient undergoes a coronary artery bypass graft procedure, and the healthcare provider performs a coronary endarterectomy on the circumflex artery and four additional vessels.
10. During a coronary artery bypass graft procedure, the healthcare provider performs a coronary endarterectomy on the left anterior descending artery, circumflex artery, and right coronary artery, as well as two additional vessels.