How To Use CPT Code 33783

CPT 33783 describes a surgical procedure known as aortic root translocation with ventricular septal defect and pulmonary stenosis repair, also known as the Nikaidoh procedure. This article will cover the official description, procedure details, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 33783?

CPT 33783 is a code used to describe a surgical procedure called aortic root translocation with ventricular septal defect and pulmonary stenosis repair, also known as the Nikaidoh procedure. This procedure involves moving the aortic root to the pulmonary position, excising the pulmonary valve, and reconstructing the ventricular channels. Additionally, one or both coronary ostia may be reimplanted to a more favorable position. The purpose of this procedure is to repair the blood vessels and allow proper circulation of blood in patients with a ventricular septal defect and pulmonary stenosis.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 33783 is: ‘Aortic root translocation with ventricular septal defect and pulmonary stenosis repair (ie, Nikaidoh procedure); with reimplantation of 1 or both coronary ostia.’

3. Procedure

1. The surgical procedure begins with the provider making an incision in the chest and dividing the ascending aorta.
2. The coronary openings are removed from the aortic root with attached tissue.
3. The pulmonary artery is opened, making an incision all the way to the ventricular septal defect.
4. The provider moves the aortic root and connects it to the pulmonary valve opening.
5. The ventricular septal defect is closed using a patch and sutures, allowing blood flow from the left ventricle to the aorta.
6. The coronary arteries are reattached to the aortic root.
7. The pulmonary artery is moved and attached to the right ventricular channel.
8. The ends of the proximal and distal ascending aorta are connected.
9. The incision is closed with sutures.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 33783 is performed on patients who have a ventricular septal defect and pulmonary stenosis that require surgical repair. The procedure is typically performed by a qualified surgeon in a hospital or surgical center. The patient must meet specific criteria for this procedure, which will be determined by the surgeon based on the patient’s medical history, diagnostic tests, and overall health condition.

5. When to use CPT code 33783

CPT code 33783 should be used when aortic root translocation with ventricular septal defect and pulmonary stenosis repair, including reimplantation of one or both coronary ostia, is performed. It is important to ensure that the procedure performed matches the description provided by CPT code 33783. If the procedure performed does not meet the specific criteria outlined in the code description, an alternative code should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 33783, the surgeon must document the following information:

• Patient’s medical history and diagnostic findings indicating the need for the procedure
• Details of the surgical procedure performed, including the specific steps and techniques used
• Any additional procedures or repairs performed during the same surgical session
• Any complications or unexpected findings encountered during the procedure
• Post-operative care instructions and follow-up plans
• Signature of the surgeon performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 33783, it is important to ensure that the procedure performed matches the description provided by the code. The surgeon should also follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer or insurance company. It is important to review the documentation and compare it to the code description to ensure accurate billing. Additionally, it is important to consider any additional procedures or repairs performed during the same surgical session and bill accordingly.

8. Historical information

CPT code 33783 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2010. Since its addition, there have been no updates or changes to the code.

9. Examples

1. A surgeon performs aortic root translocation with ventricular septal defect and pulmonary stenosis repair, including reimplantation of one coronary ostium, in a patient with a complex congenital heart defect.
2. A patient with a ventricular septal defect and pulmonary stenosis undergoes aortic root translocation with ventricular septal defect and pulmonary stenosis repair, including reimplantation of both coronary ostia, to improve blood circulation and cardiac function.
3. A surgeon performs aortic root translocation with ventricular septal defect and pulmonary stenosis repair, including reimplantation of one coronary ostium, in a pediatric patient with a congenital heart defect.
4. A patient with a ventricular septal defect and pulmonary stenosis undergoes aortic root translocation with ventricular septal defect and pulmonary stenosis repair, including reimplantation of both coronary ostia, to correct the structural abnormalities and improve heart function.
5. A surgeon performs aortic root translocation with ventricular septal defect and pulmonary stenosis repair, including reimplantation of one coronary ostium, in an adult patient with a complex congenital heart defect.