CPT® Code 33369

Add-On Code

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR/TAVI) with prosthetic valve; cardiopulmonary bypass support with central arterial and venous cannulation (eg, aorta, right atrium, pulmonary artery) (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR/TAVI) is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat aortic stenosis, a condition characterized by the narrowing of the aortic valve, which can impede blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body. During this procedure, a prosthetic valve is implanted to replace the diseased valve, thereby restoring normal blood flow. The unique aspect of this procedure is that it is performed with the assistance of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), which temporarily takes over the function of the heart and lungs during the surgery. This is achieved through the insertion of cannulas into the patient's vascular system, specifically into the central arteries and veins, such as the aorta and right atrium. The use of CPB allows for a controlled environment in which the heart can be temporarily stopped, enabling the surgeon to perform the valve replacement with precision. The TAVR/TAVI procedure is reported separately from the CPB support, which is indicated by the use of CPT® code 33369. This code specifically refers to the central arterial and venous cannulation required for CPB during the TAVR/TAVI procedure, highlighting the complexity and the need for careful planning and execution in patients with varying vascular anatomies or body types.