CPT® Code 33265

Endoscopy, surgical; operative tissue ablation and reconstruction of atria, limited (eg, modified maze procedure), without cardiopulmonary bypass

Endoscopic operative tissue ablation and reconstruction of the atria is a surgical procedure aimed at addressing chronic atrial fibrillation, a condition characterized by rapid and uncoordinated contractions of the heart's upper chambers, leading to an irregular and often rapid heartbeat. The procedure is performed in a limited manner, specifically referred to as a modified maze procedure, which is denoted by the CPT® code 33265. This approach is distinct from a more extensive maze procedure, identified by CPT® code 33266. Importantly, the modified maze procedure is conducted without the use of cardiopulmonary bypass, allowing for a less invasive technique. The procedure is particularly suitable for patients diagnosed with lone atrial fibrillation, meaning they do not have other underlying cardiac diseases. The endoscopic or 'keyhole' approach utilized in this procedure is designed to minimize trauma to the body while effectively correcting the abnormal electrical pathways that contribute to atrial fibrillation. This technique employs robotic assistance to perform the ablation of the abnormal atrial pathways through small puncture wounds in the chest. Additionally, the procedure may involve the resection of the atrial appendage, which is a small pouch in the heart that can contribute to the formation of blood clots. By restoring the normal conduction pathways, the procedure aims to eliminate the fibrillation of the atria, thereby improving the patient's heart rhythm and overall cardiac function.