CPT® Code 33871

Transverse aortic arch graft, with cardiopulmonary bypass, with profound hypothermia, total circulatory arrest and isolated cerebral perfusion with reimplantation of arch vessel(s) (eg, island pedicle or individual arch vessel reimplantation)

The procedure described by CPT® Code 33871 involves the surgical repair of a transverse aortic arch aneurysm using a graft. This complex operation is performed under cardiopulmonary bypass, which temporarily takes over the function of the heart and lungs, allowing the surgeon to operate on a still and bloodless field. The procedure requires profound hypothermia, which is achieved through the administration of cold blood cardioplegia, and total circulatory arrest, during which blood flow is completely halted to facilitate the surgical intervention. Isolated cerebral perfusion is also a critical component of this procedure, ensuring that the brain receives adequate blood supply even while the rest of the body is under circulatory arrest. The operation includes the reimplantation of arch vessels, which may involve either an island pedicle or individual arch vessel reimplantation techniques. This detailed approach is necessary to restore normal blood flow and function to the aorta and its branches, which are vital for supplying oxygenated blood to the upper body and brain.