CPT® Code 33766

The CPT® Code 33766 refers to a surgical procedure known as the classical Glenn procedure, which involves the creation of a shunt from the superior vena cava to the pulmonary artery, specifically designed to facilitate blood flow to one lung. This procedure is typically indicated for patients suffering from cyanosis due to congenital heart defects, such as tetralogy of Fallot. The classical Glenn procedure is classified as a closed heart surgery, meaning it is performed without opening the heart itself, and is often utilized as a temporary solution to manage symptoms associated with certain cardiac anomalies. During the procedure, the surgeon gains access to the heart and surrounding blood vessels through a median sternotomy, which is an incision made along the sternum. Cardiopulmonary bypass is established to maintain circulation and oxygenation of the blood while the surgical intervention is performed. The right pulmonary artery is then transected and connected to the superior vena cava using an end-to-side anastomosis, allowing deoxygenated blood from the superior vena cava to flow directly into the right pulmonary artery. This procedure is crucial for improving oxygenation in patients with specific heart conditions and is part of a series of surgical interventions that may be required to address complex congenital heart defects.