CPT® Code 33406

An open aortic valve replacement is a surgical procedure performed to replace a diseased or malfunctioning aortic valve with a new valve. This procedure is conducted with the assistance of cardiopulmonary bypass, which temporarily takes over the function of the heart and lungs during surgery, allowing the surgeon to operate on a still and bloodless field. In this specific case, the replacement involves the use of an allograft valve, which is a type of prosthetic valve obtained from a human cadaver donor. This contrasts with other types of valves, such as mechanical valves or stentless tissue valves, which are made from synthetic materials or animal tissues, respectively. The procedure typically requires a median sternotomy or upper hemisternotomy to access the heart. The surgical steps include the insertion of cannulas for blood circulation, the administration of cardioplegia to induce cardiac arrest, and the careful excision of the diseased valve. The allograft valve is then meticulously sutured into place, ensuring proper alignment and function. This procedure is critical for patients suffering from aortic stenosis or regurgitation, as it restores normal blood flow and alleviates symptoms associated with valve dysfunction.