CPT® Code 33410

An open aortic valve replacement is a surgical procedure performed to replace a diseased or malfunctioning aortic valve with a prosthetic 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. The prosthetic valve used in this specific procedure is a stentless tissue valve, which is derived from biological sources such as porcine (pig) or bovine (cow) tissues. Unlike mechanical valves, which are made from synthetic materials, stentless tissue valves are designed to mimic the natural function of the heart valve and may offer advantages in terms of hemodynamics and reduced risk of thrombosis. The surgical approach typically involves a median sternotomy or an upper hemisternotomy to access the heart. The procedure is complex and requires careful manipulation of the heart structures, including the aortic annulus and surrounding tissues, to ensure proper placement and function of the new valve. This replacement is indicated for patients with severe aortic stenosis or regurgitation, where the valve fails to open properly or does not close completely, leading to compromised cardiac function.