CPT® Code 33600

Closure of an atrioventricular valve, specifically the mitral or tricuspid valve, is a surgical procedure indicated for patients with single ventricle cardiac anomalies. In a typical heart, there are two ventricles: the left ventricle is responsible for pumping oxygenated blood into the aorta and systemic circulation, while the right ventricle pumps deoxygenated blood into the pulmonary arteries and lungs. However, in cases of single ventricle heart defects, one of the ventricles may be absent or underdeveloped, resulting in only one ventricle being capable of effectively pumping blood throughout the body. This condition necessitates surgical interventions aimed at optimizing the function of the single ventricle to ensure adequate blood flow to both the aorta and the lungs. The surgical approach often involves multiple staged procedures. A critical component of the surgical strategy for certain single ventricle anomalies includes the closure of one of the atrioventricular or semilunar valves, which helps direct blood flow into the aorta. The procedure typically requires access to the heart through a median sternotomy, and if a pericardial patch is utilized for closure, the pericardium is incised to harvest the patch. Cardiopulmonary bypass is then initiated to facilitate the procedure. In CPT® Code 33600, the focus is on the closure of either the mitral or tricuspid valve, while CPT® Code 33602 pertains to the closure of either the aortic or pulmonary valve. During the procedure, the selected valve is exposed, and if a pericardial patch is employed, it is placed over the valve. Alternatively, if sutures are used for closure, the valve leaflets are sutured together to achieve complete closure of the valve.