How To Use CPT Code 33710

CPT 33710 describes the surgical repair of a sinus of Valsalva fistula, along with the repair of a ventricular septal defect, using 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 33710?

CPT 33710 is used to describe the surgical repair of a sinus of Valsalva fistula, which is an abnormal connection between the aortic sinus and the heart. This code also includes the repair of a ventricular septal defect, which is a hole in the tissue wall separating the two ventricles of the heart. The procedure is performed using cardiopulmonary bypass, which temporarily takes over the function of the heart and lungs during surgery.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 33710 is: ‘Repair sinus of Valsalva fistula, with cardiopulmonary bypass; with repair of ventricular septal defect.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making an incision in the chest wall to access the heart, typically through a median sternotomy incision.
2. Once the heart is exposed, the provider assesses the sinus of Valsalva fistula and determines the appropriate repair method.
3. A patch or graft is used to repair the abnormal connection in the aortic sinus.
4. The provider then assesses the ventricular septal defect and uses another patch or graft to repair the hole in the tissue wall.
5. During the procedure, the patient is placed on cardiopulmonary bypass, which temporarily takes over the function of the heart and lungs.
6. After the repairs are complete, the provider discontinues the use of cardiopulmonary bypass and restarts the heart.
7. The provider ensures that there is no bleeding and closes the chest wall by suturing the tissues in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 33710 is performed on patients who have a sinus of Valsalva fistula and a ventricular septal defect. These conditions are usually congenital, meaning they are present since birth. The procedure is performed by a provider who is experienced in cardiac surgery and is capable of using cardiopulmonary bypass. The use of cardiopulmonary bypass is necessary to maintain the circulation of blood and oxygen during the surgery.

5. When to use CPT code 33710

CPT code 33710 should be used when a provider performs the surgical repair of a sinus of Valsalva fistula and a ventricular septal defect using cardiopulmonary bypass. This code should not be used for repairs that do not involve both of these conditions or for repairs performed without the use of cardiopulmonary bypass.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 33710, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of a sinus of Valsalva fistula and a ventricular septal defect
• Details of the repair procedure, including the use of cardiopulmonary bypass
• Date of the procedure
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Any additional procedures or repairs performed during the same surgical session
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 33710, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for this code, including the repair of a sinus of Valsalva fistula and a ventricular septal defect using cardiopulmonary bypass. It is important to follow the specific guidelines and documentation requirements set forth by the payer. Additionally, be aware of any modifiers that may be required for accurate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT 33710 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code has not undergone any updates since its addition. In 2017, it was added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare.

9. Examples

1. A provider surgically repairs a sinus of Valsalva fistula and a ventricular septal defect in a patient using cardiopulmonary bypass.
2. During a cardiac surgery, a provider repairs a sinus of Valsalva fistula and a ventricular septal defect in a patient, utilizing cardiopulmonary bypass.
3. A patient undergoes a surgical procedure in which a sinus of Valsalva fistula and a ventricular septal defect are repaired by a provider using cardiopulmonary bypass.
4. Using cardiopulmonary bypass, a provider performs the surgical repair of a sinus of Valsalva fistula and a ventricular septal defect in a patient.
5. A provider utilizes cardiopulmonary bypass to repair a sinus of Valsalva fistula and a ventricular septal defect in a patient during a surgical procedure.
6. During a cardiac surgery, a provider performs the repair of a sinus of Valsalva fistula and a ventricular septal defect in a patient using cardiopulmonary bypass.
7. A patient undergoes a surgical procedure in which a provider repairs a sinus of Valsalva fistula and a ventricular septal defect using cardiopulmonary bypass.
8. Using cardiopulmonary bypass, a provider surgically repairs a sinus of Valsalva fistula and a ventricular septal defect in a patient.