How To Use CPT Code 33218

CPT 33218 describes the repair of a single transvenous electrode in a permanent pacemaker or implantable defibrillator. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 33218?

CPT 33218 is used to describe the repair of a single transvenous electrode in a permanent pacemaker or implantable defibrillator. This code is used when the provider disconnects and repairs the electrode from the impulse generator, such as a pacemaker or implanted cardiac defibrillator, and then reattaches the electrode to the generator. The repair is performed when the pacemaker or defibrillator is not functioning properly due to an issue with the electrode.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 33218 is: ‘Repair of single transvenous electrode, permanent pacemaker or implantable defibrillator.’ This code should be used when the provider repairs a single transvenous electrode of an impulse generator.

3. Procedure

1. The provider incises the existing cardiac device pocket and removes the pulse generator to gain access to the electrodes.
2. Next, the provider disconnects the electrodes from the pulse generator and tests them.
3. If a defect is found, the provider repairs the defective electrode and retests the system.
4. Finally, the provider reattaches the electrodes to the generator, places the generator and electrodes back in their previous position, and closes the cardiac device pocket.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 33218 is performed when there is a problem with a single transvenous electrode in a permanent pacemaker or implantable defibrillator. The repair is necessary to restore the proper functioning of the device. This code should only be used for the repair of a single electrode, and not for the replacement of the pulse generator.

5. When to use CPT code 33218

CPT code 33218 should be used when the provider performs the repair of a single transvenous electrode in a permanent pacemaker or implantable defibrillator. It should not be used for the replacement of the pulse generator or for the repair of multiple electrodes. If the provider repairs two transvenous electrodes, CPT code 33220 should be used instead.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 33218, the provider must document the following information:

• The reason for the repair and the specific problem with the electrode
• The steps taken to repair the electrode
• The date and duration of the procedure
• Any additional procedures performed during the same session
• The signature of the provider performing the repair

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 33218, ensure that the repair is performed on a single transvenous electrode in a permanent pacemaker or implantable defibrillator. This code should not be reported if the provider has already performed the replacement of the pulse generator in the previous seven days. It is important to use the appropriate modifier if necessary and to follow the specific billing guidelines of the payer.

8. Historical information

CPT code 33218 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been two code changes since its addition, with the most recent change occurring on January 1, 2015.

9. Examples

1. A provider repairs a single transvenous electrode in a permanent pacemaker for a patient experiencing malfunctioning of the device.
2. An implantable defibrillator’s single transvenous electrode is repaired by a provider due to a problem with the electrode’s functionality.
3. A patient’s permanent pacemaker requires the repair of a single transvenous electrode to restore proper functioning, which is performed by a provider.
4. A provider performs the repair of a single transvenous electrode in an implantable defibrillator to address issues with the electrode’s performance.
5. A patient’s permanent pacemaker undergoes the repair of a single transvenous electrode by a provider to resolve problems with the electrode’s operation.
6. An implantable defibrillator’s single transvenous electrode is repaired by a provider to rectify issues affecting the electrode’s functionality.
7. A provider performs the repair of a single transvenous electrode in a permanent pacemaker for a patient experiencing malfunctioning of the device.
8. A patient’s implantable defibrillator requires the repair of a single transvenous electrode to restore proper functioning, which is performed by a provider.
9. A provider repairs a single transvenous electrode in a permanent pacemaker to address issues with the electrode’s performance.
10. An implantable defibrillator’s single transvenous electrode is repaired by a provider to resolve problems with the electrode’s operation.