CPT® Code 33670

The procedure described by CPT® Code 33670 involves the surgical repair of a complete atrioventricular canal (AVC), which is a significant congenital heart defect characterized by a combination of atrial septal defect (ASD) and ventricular septal defect (VSD) along with a common atrioventricular valve. This defect arises from improper development of the endocardial cushions during embryonic heart formation, leading to a failure in the separation of the heart's chambers. The AVC can result in a range of hemodynamic issues due to the mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood, which can lead to heart failure and other complications if not addressed. In this procedure, the surgeon accesses the heart through a median sternotomy, allowing for direct visualization and manipulation of the heart structures. The operation typically involves the use of cardiopulmonary bypass to maintain circulation while the heart is temporarily stopped. The repair process includes the closure of the septal defects and the reconstruction of the atrioventricular valve to ensure proper function. The use of synthetic patches and pericardial patches is common in this procedure to effectively close the defects and restore normal anatomy. The ultimate goal of the surgery is to improve the heart's function, prevent complications, and enhance the patient's quality of life.