How To Use CPT Code 33210

CPT 33210 describes the insertion or replacement of a temporary transvenous single chamber cardiac electrode or pacemaker catheter as a separate procedure. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 33210?

CPT 33210 can be used to describe the insertion or replacement of a temporary pacemaker electrode or catheter into the appropriate chamber of the heart. This code is used when the procedure is performed as a separate procedure and is not integral to a larger procedure being performed at the same time.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 33210 is: ‘Insertion or replacement of temporary transvenous single chamber cardiac electrode or pacemaker catheter (separate procedure).’ There are no additional notes or modifiers associated with this code.

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient and administers anesthesia as necessary.
2. An incision is made, and the electrode catheter is inserted through a vein.
3. Using imaging guidance, the provider navigates the electrode catheter to the appropriate chamber of the heart.
4. The lead is inserted and attached to an external temporary generator box.
5. The procedure is completed, and the incision is closed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 33210 is performed when there is a need to insert or replace a temporary pacemaker electrode or catheter in a single chamber of the heart. This procedure is typically performed by a qualified healthcare professional who has the necessary training and expertise. It is important to note that this code should only be used when the procedure is performed as a separate procedure and is not integral to a larger procedure being performed at the same time.

5. When to use CPT code 33210

CPT code 33210 should be used when the insertion or replacement of a temporary pacemaker electrode or catheter is performed as a separate procedure. It should not be reported if it is an integral part of a larger procedure being performed at the same time. It is important to review the documentation and ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for reporting CPT 33210.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 33210, the healthcare professional must document the following information:

• Reason for the procedure and the medical necessity
• Details of the procedure, including the specific chamber of the heart where the electrode or catheter was inserted or replaced
• Date and time of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the healthcare professional performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 33210, it is important to ensure that the procedure is performed as a separate procedure and is not integral to a larger procedure being performed at the same time. It should be reported with the appropriate diagnosis codes and any necessary modifiers. It is also important to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer or coding guidelines.

8. Historical information

CPT 33210 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A cardiologist performs the insertion of a temporary pacemaker electrode into the right ventricle of a patient’s heart as a separate procedure.
2. A cardiac surgeon replaces a temporary pacemaker catheter in the atrium of a patient’s heart during a separate procedure.
3. An electrophysiologist inserts a temporary pacemaker electrode into the left ventricle of a patient’s heart as a separate procedure.
4. A cardiovascular technologist replaces a temporary pacemaker catheter in the right atrium of a patient’s heart during a separate procedure.
5. A cardiac nurse inserts a temporary pacemaker electrode into the right ventricle of a patient’s heart as a separate procedure.
6. A cardiac electrophysiologist replaces a temporary pacemaker catheter in the atrium of a patient’s heart during a separate procedure.
7. A cardiovascular surgeon inserts a temporary pacemaker electrode into the left ventricle of a patient’s heart as a separate procedure.
8. An interventional cardiologist replaces a temporary pacemaker catheter in the right atrium of a patient’s heart during a separate procedure.
9. A cardiac technician inserts a temporary pacemaker electrode into the right ventricle of a patient’s heart as a separate procedure.
10. A cardiac electrophysiologist replaces a temporary pacemaker catheter in the atrium of a patient’s heart during a separate procedure.