What is the correct CPT® code for a MAZE procedure performed on a patient with atrial fibrillation?

The MAZE procedure, which is an atrial fibrillation surgical treatment involving the creation of lesions in the heart to restore a normal rhythm, is accurately captured by the CPT® code 33256. This code is specifically designated for the surgical ablation of atrial fibrillation and aligns with procedures that involve more extensive interventions typically involved in the MAZE operation.

Code 33256 indicates the performance of pulmonary vein isolation and/or left atrial ablation, which are critical components of the MAZE procedure used to mitigate the irregular electrical signals responsible for atrial fibrillation. The level of complexity, the type of surgical approach, and the specific components of the procedure performed are all reflected in this CPT® code, making it the appropriate choice for reporting a MAZE procedure.

Understanding these distinctions is important when selecting the correct code for billing and documentation purposes, ensuring accurate representations of surgical interventions.