CPT® Code 33677

The procedure described by CPT® Code 33677 involves the surgical closure of multiple ventricular septal defects (VSDs), which are congenital heart defects characterized by the presence of one or more openings in the septum that separates the heart's ventricles. These defects can lead to significant complications, including increased blood flow to the lungs and potential heart failure if not addressed. During the surgery, the surgeon makes an incision in the chest to gain access to the heart, followed by an incision in the pericardium, the protective sac surrounding the heart. A patch may be harvested from the pericardium or synthetic material may be used to repair the defects. Cardiopulmonary bypass is initiated to maintain blood circulation while the heart is being operated on. The VSDs are typically repaired through an incision in the right atrium, pulmonary artery, or the outflow tract of the right ventricle, using sutures or patches to close the defects. In cases where a pulmonary artery band has been previously placed to manage pulmonary overcirculation, this band is removed during the procedure. The surgeon may also evaluate pulmonary artery pressures and, if necessary, place a gusset to enlarge the diameter of the pulmonary artery, ensuring proper blood flow and reducing the risk of complications associated with high pulmonary artery pressures. The procedure concludes with the closure of the access incision and the placement of chest tubes to facilitate drainage, followed by the closure of the chest incision.