CPT® Code 39545

Imbrication of the diaphragm for eventration, as described by CPT® Code 39545, is a surgical procedure aimed at addressing diaphragmatic eventration, which is characterized by the abnormal elevation of the diaphragm. This condition can lead to significant complications, including compromised lung function due to reduced thoracic space and impaired bowel function from the displacement of abdominal organs into the thoracic cavity. Diaphragmatic eventration can be classified into two categories: congenital or nonparalytic eventration, which is present at birth, and paralytic eventration, which develops later in life. The surgical intervention can be performed using two approaches: transthoracic or transabdominal. The transthoracic approach is typically reserved for cases of severe diaphragmatic elevation, while the transabdominal approach may be suitable for less severe instances. During the procedure, careful dissection is performed to expose the diaphragm, and the surgical team takes precautions to protect the phrenic nerve, which is crucial for diaphragm function. The procedure involves reducing the displaced abdominal contents back into the abdominal cavity, trimming the redundant portion of the diaphragm, and reconstructing it by overlapping the edges of the diaphragm muscle to restore its normal function and position.