How To Use CPT Code 33676

CPT 33676 describes the closure of multiple ventricular septal defects with either a pulmonary valvotomy or infundibular resection. This article will cover the description, official details, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 33676?

CPT 33676 can be used to describe the surgical procedure performed to close multiple ventricular septal defects. The procedure involves either a pulmonary valvotomy or an infundibular resection to prevent the mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood in the ventricles. It is important to note that this procedure is performed on acyanotic patients, meaning those without a bluish tint associated with deoxygenated blood.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 33676 is the closure of multiple ventricular septal defects with either a pulmonary valvotomy or infundibular resection (acyanotic).

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making an incision in the chest to access the heart.
2. The patient is placed on cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) to temporarily take over the function of the heart and lungs.
3. The provider opens the right atrium and identifies the ventricular septal defects.
4. Each defect is closed using sutures or patch grafts to prevent the mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood.
5. If necessary, the provider performs a pulmonary valvotomy by making incisions in the pulmonary valve to remove any obstruction to the right ventricular outflow tract caused by the infundibular muscle.
6. The provider closes the incisions in the heart, checks for bleeding, takes the patient off CPB, removes any instruments, and finally closes the incision in the chest.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 33676 is performed on patients with multiple ventricular septal defects who require closure to prevent the mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood. The procedure is specifically performed on acyanotic patients, meaning those without a bluish tint associated with deoxygenated blood. It is important to note that this procedure involves either a pulmonary valvotomy or an infundibular resection.

5. When to use CPT code 33676

CPT code 33676 should be used when a provider performs the closure of multiple ventricular septal defects with either a pulmonary valvotomy or infundibular resection on an acyanotic patient. It is important to ensure that the patient meets the qualifying circumstances for this procedure.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 33676, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for closure of multiple ventricular septal defects
• Details of the procedure performed, including whether a pulmonary valvotomy or infundibular resection was performed
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional relevant information, such as the number of defects closed or any complications encountered
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 33676, ensure that the procedure meets the qualifying circumstances and is performed on an acyanotic patient. It is important to follow the specific guidelines for reporting this code and any associated codes. Be aware of any updates or changes in billing guidelines to ensure accurate reporting.

8. Historical information

CPT 33676 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2007. It has not undergone any updates or changes since its addition. It is important to stay informed about any future updates or revisions to this code.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs the closure of multiple ventricular septal defects with a pulmonary valvotomy on an acyanotic patient.
2. A patient with multiple ventricular septal defects undergoes the closure procedure with an infundibular resection.
3. A provider performs the closure of multiple ventricular septal defects with both a pulmonary valvotomy and an infundibular resection on an acyanotic patient.
4. An acyanotic patient with multiple ventricular septal defects undergoes the closure procedure with a pulmonary valvotomy and a patch graft.
5. A provider performs the closure of multiple ventricular septal defects with an infundibular resection and sutures on an acyanotic patient.
6. The closure of multiple ventricular septal defects with a pulmonary valvotomy is performed on an acyanotic patient using a patch graft.
7. An infundibular resection is performed to close multiple ventricular septal defects on an acyanotic patient.
8. A provider performs the closure of multiple ventricular septal defects with a pulmonary valvotomy and sutures on an acyanotic patient.
9. An acyanotic patient undergoes the closure procedure for multiple ventricular septal defects with an infundibular resection and a patch graft.
10. The closure of multiple ventricular septal defects is performed on an acyanotic patient using a pulmonary valvotomy and sutures.