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The procedure described by CPT® Code 33940 refers to a donor cardiectomy, which is a surgical operation performed to remove the heart from a deceased donor for transplantation purposes. This procedure is conducted after the confirmation of brain death, ensuring that the donor's organs are viable for transplantation. The organ procurement team plays a crucial role in this process, as they are responsible for the careful examination of the donor to assess the condition of the organs. A bronchoscopy is typically performed to evaluate the lungs, which are also harvested along with the heart. The surgical approach involves a median sternotomy, which is an incision made along the sternum to access the thoracic cavity. This incision may be extended to allow access to the abdominal organs as well, facilitating a comprehensive examination and preparation of the organs for removal. During the procedure, the heart undergoes a thorough inspection, and preliminary dissection of both the lungs and heart is carried out to prepare for the removal. The pulmonary artery and aorta are cannulated to enable the perfusion of the body with cold saline, which is critical for preserving the heart during transport. The superior vena cava, left pulmonary vein, and inferior vena cava are then divided to detach the heart from the circulatory system. Once the aorta is cross-clamped, the body is perfused, and the heart is subsequently removed. It is placed in a sterile bag and then surrounded by ice to maintain its viability until it can be transported to the recipient site for transplantation. This meticulous process is essential for ensuring that the heart remains in optimal condition for successful transplantation into a recipient.
© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.
The donor cardiectomy procedure, as described by CPT® Code 33940, is indicated in specific circumstances related to organ transplantation. The primary indication for this procedure is the confirmation of brain death in a potential organ donor. This condition ensures that the donor's organs, including the heart, are suitable for transplantation. The procedure is performed to facilitate the recovery of the heart for transplantation into a recipient who requires a heart transplant due to end-stage heart disease or other cardiac conditions. The successful execution of this procedure is critical for maximizing the availability of viable organs for patients in need of transplantation.
The donor cardiectomy procedure involves several critical steps to ensure the successful removal of the heart for transplantation. Initially, the organ procurement team conducts a thorough examination of the donor after brain death has been confirmed. This examination includes performing a bronchoscopy to assess the condition of the lungs. Following this, a median sternotomy is performed, which involves making an incision along the sternum to gain access to the thoracic cavity. The incision may be extended to also expose the abdominal organs, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation and preparation of the organs for removal. Once access is achieved, the heart is inspected for viability. Preliminary dissection of the lungs and heart is then performed to prepare for the removal process. The next step involves cannulating the pulmonary artery and aorta, which is essential for the subsequent perfusion of the body. After cannulation, the superior vena cava is divided, followed by the left pulmonary vein and inferior vena cava, effectively detaching the heart from the circulatory system. At this point, the aorta is cross-clamped to control blood flow, and the body is perfused with cold saline. This step is crucial for preserving the heart during transport. Following perfusion, the pulmonary artery and aorta are divided, allowing for the complete removal of the heart. The heart is then placed in a sterile bag, which is subsequently surrounded by ice to maintain its viability. Finally, the heart is transported to the recipient site, where it will be transplanted into the recipient.
Post-procedure care following a donor cardiectomy primarily involves the careful handling and transportation of the harvested heart to ensure its viability for transplantation. The heart must be kept in a sterile environment and maintained at a low temperature, typically surrounded by ice, to preserve its function until it reaches the recipient site. The organ procurement team is responsible for monitoring the condition of the heart during transport and ensuring that it is delivered promptly to the surgical team at the transplant center. Additionally, documentation of the procedure and the condition of the organ is essential for compliance and tracking purposes. The success of the transplantation ultimately depends on the meticulous execution of the donor cardiectomy and the subsequent care of the harvested organ.
| Short Descr | REMOVAL OF DONOR HEART | Medium Descr | DONOR CARDIECTOMY | Long Descr | Donor cardiectomy (including cold preservation) | Status Code | Statutory Exclusion (from MPFS, may be paid under other methodologies) | Global Days | XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 9 - Not Applicable | Multiple Procedures (51) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Bilateral Surgery (50) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Physician Supervisions | 09 - Concept does not apply. | Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Co-Surgeons (62) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Team Surgery (66) | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Diagnostic Imaging Family | 99 - Concept Does Not Apply | APC Status Indicator | Inpatient Procedures, not paid under OPPS | Type of Service (TOS) | 2 - Surgery | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | P2F - Major procedure, cardiovascular-Other | MUE | 1 | CCS Clinical Classification | 49 - Other OR heart procedures |
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| 2005-01-01 | Changed | Code description changed. |
| Pre-1990 | Added | Code added. |
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