How To Use CPT Code 33250

CPT 33250 describes the operative ablation of a supraventricular arrhythmogenic focus or pathway without the use of cardiopulmonary bypass. 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 33250?

CPT 33250 can be used to describe a surgical procedure in which a small area of the heart above the ventricles is destroyed to treat an abnormal heart rhythm. This procedure does not require the use of cardiopulmonary bypass.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 33250 is: ‘Operative ablation of supraventricular arrhythmogenic focus or pathway (eg, Wolff-Parkinson-White, atrioventricular node re-entry), tract(s) and/or focus (foci); without cardiopulmonary bypass.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider makes an incision in the chest and exposes the heart.
2. Another provider, an electrophysiologist, stimulates the heart using electrodes to identify the area causing the abnormal heart rhythm.
3. The surgeon then destroys the localized area of the heart using techniques such as electrical current, incision, or cryotherapy.
4. The electrophysiologist confirms the successful destruction of the area causing the abnormal heart rhythm.
5. The surgeon controls bleeding and closes the chest wall by suturing the layers of tissue together.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 33250 is used when a patient requires operative ablation of a supraventricular arrhythmogenic focus or pathway without the use of cardiopulmonary bypass. This procedure is typically performed on patients with conditions such as Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome or atrioventricular node reentry.

5. When to use CPT code 33250

CPT code 33250 should be used when a provider performs operative ablation of a supraventricular arrhythmogenic focus or pathway without the use of cardiopulmonary bypass. It is important to note that if the patient requires cardiopulmonary bypass during the procedure, a different CPT code should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 33250, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for operative ablation
• Specific details of the procedure performed
• Date of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 33250, ensure that the procedure was performed without the use of cardiopulmonary bypass. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate billing and reimbursement. Additionally, be aware of any modifiers that may be required for proper coding.

8. Historical information

CPT 33250 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition. However, it is important to stay updated with any changes or revisions that may occur in the future.

9. Examples

1. A patient with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome undergoes operative ablation of the supraventricular arrhythmogenic focus without the use of cardiopulmonary bypass.
2. An individual with atrioventricular node re-entry receives operative ablation of the supraventricular arrhythmogenic pathway without the use of cardiopulmonary bypass.
3. A provider performs operative ablation of a supraventricular arrhythmogenic focus in a patient with an abnormal heart rhythm, using techniques such as electrical current or cryotherapy.
4. A patient with a history of supraventricular arrhythmias undergoes operative ablation of the arrhythmogenic pathway without the use of cardiopulmonary bypass.
5. An electrophysiologist and a surgeon collaborate to perform operative ablation of a supraventricular arrhythmogenic focus in a patient with a complex heart rhythm disorder.
6. A provider performs operative ablation of a supraventricular arrhythmogenic pathway in a patient with recurrent episodes of tachycardia.
7. An individual with a ventricular arrhythmogenic focus undergoes operative ablation without the use of cardiopulmonary bypass.
8. A patient with a history of ventricular arrhythmias receives operative ablation of the arrhythmogenic pathway without the use of cardiopulmonary bypass.
9. A provider performs operative ablation of a ventricular arrhythmogenic focus using techniques such as electrical current or cryotherapy.
10. An electrophysiologist and a surgeon collaborate to perform operative ablation of a ventricular arrhythmogenic focus in a patient with a complex heart rhythm disorder.