CPT® Code 33935

The procedure described by CPT® Code 33935 involves a heart-lung transplant, which is a complex surgical operation that entails the removal of the patient's diseased heart and lungs and their replacement with healthy donor organs. The surgery begins with a median sternotomy, which is an incision made along the sternum to provide access to the thoracic cavity. Cardiopulmonary bypass is then established, allowing the surgeon to temporarily take over the function of the heart and lungs during the procedure. This is crucial as it maintains blood circulation and oxygenation while the organs are being replaced. During the transplant, care is taken to preserve the phrenic nerves, which are essential for diaphragm function and breathing. If an orthotopic heart transplant is performed, the entire lung structure is removed along with most of the heart, leaving parts of the recipient's atria intact. The surgical steps include making incisions in the right atrium and the left atrium, connecting these incisions, and preparing the recipient's anatomy for the insertion of the donor organs. The donor heart and lungs are then carefully positioned, and the trachea of both the donor and recipient are connected to ensure proper airway function. Finally, the donor aorta is anastomosed to the recipient aorta, and the patient is gradually weaned off the cardiopulmonary bypass. The procedure concludes with the placement of chest tubes to drain any fluid and the closure of the chest incisions. This intricate operation is performed to treat patients with end-stage heart and lung diseases, providing them with a chance for improved health and quality of life.