CPT® Code 33822

The procedure described by CPT® Code 33822 involves the surgical repair of a patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in patients who are younger than 18 years of age. The ductus arteriosus is a vital blood vessel that connects the descending aorta to the left pulmonary artery during fetal development, facilitating proper circulation in the womb. Typically, this vessel closes shortly after birth, which is a normal physiological process. However, in cases of patent ductus arteriosus, the ductus fails to close, leading to potential complications such as increased workload on the heart and damage to the lungs due to abnormal blood flow. The surgical approach to repair the PDA involves a posterolateral thoracotomy, which is an incision made in the chest to access the heart and surrounding structures. During the procedure, the surgeon may choose to suture ligate the ductus arteriosus, which involves tying it off, or alternatively, the ductus may be divided after ligation. The specific code 33822 is designated for instances where the ductus is divided in patients under 18 years of age, distinguishing it from other related codes that apply to different age groups or methods of closure.