CPT code 33778 denotes the arterial switch (Jatene) procedure, a complex open-heart surgical repair for dextro-transposition of the great arteries in which the aorta and pulmonary artery are surgically transposed to their normal ventriculoarterial positions. This code captures a high-acuity congenital cardiac operation typically performed in specialized pediatric cardiac centers and carries significant implications for hospital resource use, perioperative care, and long-term follow-up.

Key payers addressed include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise clinical context for the procedure, typical sites of service, and the payers commonly covering such inpatient congenital cardiac surgeries. The publication provides national-level benchmarks and coding guidance, highlights payer coverage patterns and authorization considerations where applicable, and summarizes policy and billing factors that affect reimbursement and documentation for high-risk pediatric cardiac surgery.

The content is aimed at clinicians, coding professionals, and health policy analysts seeking a clear, nationally focused reference on CPT code 33778, its clinical significance, and the payer landscape relevant to inpatient congenital cardiac surgical care.