CPT® Code 33780

Repair of transposition of the great arteries, aortic pulmonary artery reconstruction (eg, Jatene type); with closure of ventricular septal defect

The procedure described by CPT® Code 33780 involves the surgical repair of transposition of the great arteries, a serious congenital heart defect. In this condition, the aorta is incorrectly connected to the right ventricle, while the pulmonary arteries are connected to the left ventricle, leading to a life-threatening situation where oxygen-poor blood is circulated to the body without passing through the lungs for oxygenation. The Jatene procedure, which is a type of aortic and pulmonary artery reconstruction, is utilized to correct this anomaly. This surgical intervention not only addresses the transposition but also includes the closure of a ventricular septal defect (VSD), which is a common associated condition characterized by an abnormal opening in the ventricular septum that allows mixing of oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor blood. The procedure is complex and requires careful dissection and reconstruction of the heart's major vessels, ensuring proper blood flow and oxygenation post-surgery. The surgical approach typically involves median sternotomy or thoracotomy, and may also include resection of the thymus and harvesting of the pericardium for patch grafting. This comprehensive repair is critical for restoring normal cardiac function and improving the patient's overall health and quality of life.