How To Use CPT Code 33215

CPT 33215 describes the repositioning of a previously implanted transvenous pacemaker or implantable defibrillator electrode in the right atrium or right ventricle of a patient’s heart. 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 33215?

CPT 33215 can be used to describe the repositioning of an electrode that is already in place within the right atrium or right ventricle of a patient’s heart. This procedure is performed when a pacemaker implant or implantable defibrillator is not functioning properly due to improper electrode placement or lead dislodgement.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 33215 is: ‘Repositioning of previously implanted transvenous pacemaker or implantable defibrillator (right atrial or right ventricular) electrode.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider accesses the previously created pocket for the cardiac device generator.
2. The pulse generator is removed and tested to ensure proper functioning.
3. If there are no defects, the generator is replaced, and the electrode is reattached to the generator.
4. The electrode is then placed in a new, corrected position within the right atrium or right ventricle.
5. The device is tested again to ensure proper functioning.
6. Finally, the generator is placed back into its previous position, and the cardiac device pocket is closed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

This procedure is performed on patients who have previously had a transvenous pacemaker or implantable defibrillator electrode implanted in their right atrium or right ventricle. The repositioning is necessary when the electrode is not properly placed or has become dislodged, leading to malfunction of the pacemaker or defibrillator.

5. When to use CPT code 33215

CPT code 33215 should be used when a provider needs to reposition a previously implanted transvenous pacemaker or implantable defibrillator electrode in the right atrium or right ventricle. It is important to ensure that the electrode is not functioning properly due to improper placement or lead dislodgement before performing this procedure.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 33215, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s medical history and indication for repositioning of the electrode
• Details of the procedure, including the access site, removal of the pulse generator, reattachment of the electrode, and placement in the corrected position
• Testing of the device to ensure proper functioning
• Confirmation of the generator’s placement and closure of the cardiac device pocket
• Any complications or additional procedures performed during the same session
• Provider’s signature and credentials

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 33215, ensure that the procedure involves the repositioning of a previously implanted transvenous pacemaker or implantable defibrillator electrode in the right atrium or right ventricle. It is important to follow the specific documentation requirements and guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate and timely reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 33215 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2003. The code description was updated on January 1, 2015 to include pacing cardioverter-defibrillator as an alternative term for implantable defibrillator.

9. Examples

1. A patient with a previously implanted pacemaker electrode in the right atrium requires repositioning due to lead dislodgement.
2. An implantable defibrillator electrode in the right ventricle of a patient’s heart needs to be repositioned to ensure proper functioning of the device.
3. A provider performs the repositioning of a pacemaker electrode in the right atrium for a patient who experienced improper placement during the initial implantation.
4. An implantable defibrillator electrode in the right ventricle requires repositioning to address malfunctioning of the device.
5. A previously implanted pacemaker electrode in the right atrium needs to be repositioned to optimize the patient’s cardiac rhythm.
6. A provider performs the repositioning of an implantable defibrillator electrode in the right ventricle to ensure effective management of the patient’s arrhythmia.
7. A patient with a pacemaker electrode in the right atrium requires repositioning to address lead dislodgement and restore proper device function.
8. An implantable defibrillator electrode in the right ventricle needs to be repositioned to prevent recurrent episodes of ventricular tachycardia.
9. A provider performs the repositioning of a pacemaker electrode in the right atrium for a patient who experienced complications related to the initial placement.
10. An implantable defibrillator electrode in the right ventricle requires repositioning to ensure accurate detection and treatment of life-threatening arrhythmias.