Need help choosing the right code?
Ask CasePilot about procedures, modifiers, bundling, and coding guidance.
Try CasePilot© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.
An open aortic valvuloplasty is a surgical procedure aimed at correcting a narrowed or stenosed aortic valve, which is crucial for proper blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body. The aortic valve typically consists of three leaflets or cusps, and any malformation or narrowing can significantly impact cardiac function. This procedure can be performed using two primary methods: with cardiopulmonary bypass or with inflow occlusion. In cases where cardiopulmonary bypass is utilized, the patient's blood is rerouted through a heart-lung machine, allowing the surgeon to operate on a still and bloodless heart. Alternatively, inflow occlusion involves temporarily stopping venous blood flow to the heart by occluding the superior and inferior vena cava, which allows the heart to empty of blood and provides a clear surgical field. Access to the heart is achieved through a median sternotomy, where the sternum is opened, or through a thoracotomy, which involves opening the chest wall. The procedure entails cross-clamping and incising the aorta, followed by dilation of the valve or division of scar tissue, ultimately restoring normal function to the aortic valve. After the procedure, the aorta is closed, and the method of blood flow management is terminated, with chest tubes placed as necessary to facilitate recovery.
© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.
The open aortic valvuloplasty procedure is indicated for patients experiencing aortic valve stenosis or narrowing, which can lead to significant cardiovascular complications. The following conditions may warrant this surgical intervention:
The open aortic valvuloplasty procedure involves several critical steps to ensure successful intervention on the aortic valve. The following outlines the procedural steps:
Post-procedure care for patients who have undergone open aortic valvuloplasty includes monitoring for any complications, managing pain, and ensuring proper recovery. Patients are typically observed in a recovery area before being transferred to a hospital room. Chest tubes, if placed, are monitored for drainage and removed when appropriate. Patients may require medications to manage pain and prevent infection. Follow-up appointments are essential to assess the function of the aortic valve and overall cardiac health. Rehabilitation may also be recommended to aid in recovery and improve cardiovascular fitness.
| Short Descr | VALVULOPLASTY OPEN | Medium Descr | VALVULOPLASTY AORTIC VALVE OPEN W/INFLOW OCCLUS | Long Descr | Valvuloplasty, aortic valve; open, with inflow occlusion | Status Code | Active Code | Global Days | 090 - Major Surgery | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 0 - Physician Service Code | Multiple Procedures (51) | 2 - Standard payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply. | Bilateral Surgery (50) | 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply. | Physician Supervisions | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) | 2 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery does not apply to this procedure... | Co-Surgeons (62) | 1 - Co-surgeons could be paid, though supporting documentation is required... | 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 | 43 - Heart valve procedures |
Get instant expert-level medical coding assistance.