CPT® Code 33474

Pulmonary valvotomy, also known as commissurotomy, is a surgical procedure aimed at addressing conditions such as pulmonary atresia and pulmonary stenosis. The pulmonary valve plays a critical role in regulating blood flow from the right ventricle of the heart to the pulmonary artery, which carries blood to the lungs for oxygenation. In cases of pulmonary atresia, a congenital heart defect, the pulmonary valve is either absent or malformed, preventing proper blood flow. Conversely, pulmonary stenosis involves a narrowing of the valve opening, which restricts blood flow and can lead to increased pressure in the right ventricle. The procedure is performed through an open-heart approach, typically involving a median sternotomy, which allows the surgeon to access the heart directly. During the operation, the patient is placed on cardiopulmonary bypass to maintain circulation and oxygenation while the heart is temporarily stopped. The surgical technique may involve inspecting the pulmonary valve and, if necessary, performing a valvotomy to enlarge the valve opening by dissecting the commissures. This intervention aims to restore normal blood flow to the lungs, alleviating symptoms associated with these congenital heart defects and improving the patient's overall cardiac function.