How To Use CPT Code 33702

CPT 33702 describes the repair of a sinus of Valsalva fistula with the use of cardiopulmonary bypass. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 33702?

CPT 33702 is used to describe the surgical repair of a sinus of Valsalva fistula. This procedure involves closing off an abnormal passageway between the sinus of Valsalva and one of the coronary arteries to prevent rupture. The repair is performed using cardiopulmonary bypass, which temporarily takes over the function of the heart and lungs during the surgery.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 33702 is: ‘Repair sinus of Valsalva fistula, with cardiopulmonary bypass.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. An incision is made in the chest to access the heart, typically through a median sternotomy.
3. Cardiopulmonary bypass is initiated to maintain circulation and oxygenation of the body.
4. The surgeon exposes the sinus of Valsalva fistula by making an incision in the heart.
5. Sutures and patches are used as needed to repair the abnormal opening.
6. The incisions in the heart are closed, and the surgeon checks for any bleeding.
7. Any instruments used during the procedure are removed, and the incision in the chest is closed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 33702 is performed on patients with a sinus of Valsalva fistula, which is an abnormal weakness in the wall of the ascending aorta or widening of the sinus space. This condition can be congenital or acquired. The procedure is typically performed by a cardiovascular surgeon and requires the use of cardiopulmonary bypass.

5. When to use CPT code 33702

CPT code 33702 should be used when a surgeon performs a repair of a sinus of Valsalva fistula using cardiopulmonary bypass. This code is specific to the surgical repair of this particular condition and should not be used for other procedures or repairs.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 33702, the surgeon must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of a sinus of Valsalva fistula
• Description of the repair procedure performed
• Date of the surgery
• Details of the use of cardiopulmonary bypass
• Any additional procedures or repairs performed during the surgery
• Any complications or unexpected findings
• Signature of the surgeon

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 33702, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for this specific code. The use of cardiopulmonary bypass is a key component of this procedure and should be documented. It is important to follow the guidelines provided by the payer and use any necessary modifiers or additional codes as required.

8. Historical information

CPT 33702 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code underwent a change on January 1, 2010, with the addition of the description ‘Repair sinus of Valsalva fistula, with cardiopulmonary bypass.’ In 2017, it was added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare.

9. Examples

1. A cardiovascular surgeon performs a repair of a sinus of Valsalva fistula using cardiopulmonary bypass.
2. A patient with a congenital sinus of Valsalva fistula undergoes a surgical repair with the assistance of cardiopulmonary bypass.
3. A surgeon repairs an acquired sinus of Valsalva fistula using cardiopulmonary bypass during the procedure.
4. A patient with a sinus of Valsalva fistula undergoes a successful repair surgery with the use of cardiopulmonary bypass.
5. A cardiovascular team performs a repair of a sinus of Valsalva fistula, ensuring the patient’s safety with the use of cardiopulmonary bypass.
6. A surgeon repairs a sinus of Valsalva fistula, preventing potential complications with the assistance of cardiopulmonary bypass.
7. A patient with a sinus of Valsalva fistula undergoes a successful repair surgery, thanks to the use of cardiopulmonary bypass.
8. A cardiovascular surgeon performs a repair of a sinus of Valsalva fistula, ensuring the patient’s well-being with the use of cardiopulmonary bypass.
9. A surgical team successfully repairs a sinus of Valsalva fistula, utilizing cardiopulmonary bypass to maintain circulation.
10. A patient with an acquired sinus of Valsalva fistula undergoes a surgical repair, with the assistance of cardiopulmonary bypass.