How To Use CPT Code 33924

CPT 33924 describes the ligation and takedown of a systemic-to-pulmonary artery shunt, performed in conjunction with a congenital heart procedure. This article will cover the description, official terminology, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 33924?

CPT 33924 can be used to describe the surgical procedure of ligating and reestablishing the connection between the systemic artery and the pulmonary artery. This procedure is performed in conjunction with a congenital heart procedure to correct an anomaly present from birth.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 33924 is: ‘Ligation and takedown of a systemic-to-pulmonary artery shunt, performed in conjunction with a congenital heart procedure (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure).’ This code should be used in conjunction with specific primary procedure codes listed in the notes section.

3. Procedure

1. The provider locates the shunt and makes an incision in the pericardium.
2. Scar tissue around the shunt is incised and removed.
3. The shunt is tied off, divided, and additional portions are removed as necessary.
4. The ends of the shunt are sewn and closed.
5. The systemic and pulmonary artery are reconnected to their original positions.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 33924 is performed in conjunction with a congenital heart procedure to correct an anomaly. It is used when there is a need to ligate and takedown a systemic-to-pulmonary artery shunt. This code should be used in addition to the primary procedure code for the congenital heart procedure.

5. When to use CPT code 33924

CPT code 33924 should be used when the provider performs the ligation and takedown of a systemic-to-pulmonary artery shunt in conjunction with a congenital heart procedure. It should not be reported as a standalone code and should always be reported in addition to the primary procedure code for the congenital heart procedure.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 33924, the provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the ligation and takedown of the systemic-to-pulmonary artery shunt
• Details of the congenital heart procedure performed
• Date of the procedure
• Specific steps taken during the ligation and takedown procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 33924, ensure that the procedure is performed in conjunction with a congenital heart procedure. Report CPT 33924 in addition to the primary procedure code for the congenital heart procedure. Do not report CPT 33924 as a standalone code. Review the notes section for specific primary procedure codes that can be used in conjunction with CPT 33924.

8. Historical information

CPT 33924 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1996. It 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 performs the ligation and takedown of a systemic-to-pulmonary artery shunt in conjunction with a congenital heart procedure to correct a ventricular septal defect.
2. During a congenital heart procedure to repair an atrial septal defect, the provider also performs the ligation and takedown of a systemic-to-pulmonary artery shunt.
3. In a complex congenital heart procedure to correct multiple anomalies, the provider includes the ligation and takedown of a systemic-to-pulmonary artery shunt.
4. A provider performs the ligation and takedown of a systemic-to-pulmonary artery shunt in conjunction with a congenital heart procedure to repair a patent ductus arteriosus.
5. During a congenital heart procedure to correct a tetralogy of Fallot, the provider also performs the ligation and takedown of a systemic-to-pulmonary artery shunt.
6. In a complex congenital heart procedure to repair a truncus arteriosus, the provider includes the ligation and takedown of a systemic-to-pulmonary artery shunt.
7. A provider performs the ligation and takedown of a systemic-to-pulmonary artery shunt in conjunction with a congenital heart procedure to correct a double outlet right ventricle.
8. During a congenital heart procedure to repair a coarctation of the aorta, the provider also performs the ligation and takedown of a systemic-to-pulmonary artery shunt.
9. In a complex congenital heart procedure to correct transposition of the great arteries, the provider includes the ligation and takedown of a systemic-to-pulmonary artery shunt.
10. A provider performs the ligation and takedown of a systemic-to-pulmonary artery shunt in conjunction with a congenital heart procedure to repair a truncus arteriosus.