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The procedure described by CPT® Code 0051T involves the implantation of a total replacement heart system, commonly referred to as an artificial heart, in patients who are awaiting a donor heart. This complex surgical intervention is performed to provide temporary support for patients with severe heart failure or end-stage heart disease. The process begins with a median sternotomy, which is a surgical incision made along the sternum to access the heart. Once the heart is exposed, cardiopulmonary bypass is established to take over the function of the heart and lungs during the surgery, allowing the surgical team to operate on a still and bloodless field. The diseased heart is then removed through a procedure known as cardiectomy, which involves excising the patient's failing heart. Following this, the artificial heart is carefully inserted into the chest cavity, and the coronary arteries are connected to the appropriate outlets of the artificial heart to ensure proper blood flow. After the implantation, the patient is gradually weaned off the cardiopulmonary bypass, chest tubes are placed to drain any excess fluid, and the chest incisions are meticulously closed. This procedure is critical for patients who are in dire need of heart support while waiting for a suitable donor heart to become available.
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The implantation of a total replacement heart system (artificial heart) is indicated for patients who are experiencing severe heart failure or end-stage heart disease and are awaiting a donor heart. This procedure is typically considered when the patient's own heart is no longer capable of sustaining adequate circulation and when other treatment options have been exhausted or deemed insufficient.
The procedure for the implantation of a total replacement heart system involves several critical steps that ensure the successful placement of the artificial heart.
After the implantation of the total replacement heart system, patients typically require close monitoring in a critical care setting. Post-procedure care includes managing the patient's recovery from anesthesia, monitoring vital signs, and ensuring the proper functioning of the artificial heart. Patients may also need to stay in the hospital for an extended period to observe for any complications, such as infection or bleeding. Rehabilitation and follow-up care are essential components of the recovery process, as patients will need ongoing support and evaluation while they await a donor heart for transplantation.
| Short Descr | IMPLANT TOTAL HEART SYSTEM | Medium Descr | IMPLTJ TOT RPLCMT HRT SYS W/RCP CARDIECTOMY | Long Descr | Implantation of a total replacement heart system (artificial heart) with recipient cardiectomy | Status Code | Carriers Price the Code | Global Days | XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 0 - Physician Service Code | Multiple Procedures (51) | 0 - No payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply. | Bilateral Surgery (50) | 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply. | Physician Supervisions | 09 - Concept does not apply. | Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) | 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure... | Co-Surgeons (62) | 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure. | Team Surgery (66) | 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure. | Diagnostic Imaging Family | 99 - Concept Does Not Apply | APC Status Indicator | Inpatient Procedures, not paid under OPPS | Type of Service (TOS) | 2 - Surgery | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | P2F - Major procedure, cardiovascular-Other | MUE | Not applicable/unspecified. | CCS Clinical Classification | 49 - Other OR heart procedures |
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