Cardiothoracic surgery – Amended item for complex replacement or repair of aortic arch

This page provides information on changes to one Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) cardiothoracic surgery item 38557 from 1 March 2024.

Page last updated: 13 February 2024

From 1 March 2024, MBS item 38557 will be amended to remove item associations with the ascending aortic items. The amendment will allow item 38557 to be performed in conjunction with items 38550, 38553, 38554, 38556, 38558 or 38571 by any medical practitioner.

This change reflects modern clinical practice and will ensure patients receive a Medicare benefit for this service when clinically appropriate.

Further information is provided in the Quick Reference Guide below:

Word Version - Amended item for cardiothoracic surgery (Word 132 KB)
PDF Version - Amended item for cardiothoracic surgery (PDF 137 KB)

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