How To Use CPT Code 33286

CPT 33286 describes the removal of a subcutaneous cardiac rhythm monitor from a pocket in the tissues below the patient’s skin. 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 33286?

CPT 33286 can be used to describe the removal of a subcutaneous cardiac rhythm monitor from a pocket in the tissues below the patient’s skin. This code is used when the healthcare provider performs the procedure to remove the device.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 33286 is: ‘Removal, subcutaneous cardiac rhythm monitor.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider prepares the patient and administers local anesthesia.
2. An incision is made into the existing pocket in the subcutaneous tissue of the patient’s left upper chest.
3. The provider cuts any sutures holding the device in place and removes the cardiac rhythm monitor from the pocket.
4. The pocket is flushed with antimicrobial solution.
5. The incision is closed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

Patients eligible to have CPT 33286 performed are those who have a subcutaneous cardiac rhythm monitor that needs to be removed. The procedure is typically performed when the device is no longer needed or requires replacement. The patient must be appropriately prepped and receive local anesthesia before the procedure.

5. When to use CPT code 33286

CPT code 33286 should be used when a healthcare provider performs the removal of a subcutaneous cardiac rhythm monitor. It is important to ensure that the procedure is documented correctly and meets the criteria for this specific code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 33286, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the removal of the subcutaneous cardiac rhythm monitor
• Details of the procedure, including the incision, removal of sutures, flushing of the pocket, and closure of the incision
• Any complications or additional procedures performed during the removal
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 33286, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for this specific code. It is important to follow the documentation requirements and provide accurate information to support the claim. CPT code 33286 should not be reported with other codes unless additional procedures were performed during the removal.

8. Historical information

CPT 33286 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2019. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider removes a subcutaneous cardiac rhythm monitor from a patient who no longer needs it.
2. A patient’s subcutaneous cardiac rhythm monitor requires replacement, and a healthcare provider performs the removal procedure.
3. A healthcare provider removes a malfunctioning subcutaneous cardiac rhythm monitor from a patient’s chest.
4. A patient’s subcutaneous cardiac rhythm monitor is causing discomfort, and a healthcare provider performs the removal procedure.
5. A healthcare provider removes a subcutaneous cardiac rhythm monitor as part of a scheduled device replacement.
6. A patient’s subcutaneous cardiac rhythm monitor is no longer functioning properly, and a healthcare provider performs the removal procedure.
7. A healthcare provider removes a subcutaneous cardiac rhythm monitor from a patient who is transitioning to a different monitoring device.
8. A patient’s subcutaneous cardiac rhythm monitor is no longer needed after successful treatment, and a healthcare provider performs the removal procedure.
9. A healthcare provider removes a subcutaneous cardiac rhythm monitor from a patient who is experiencing an allergic reaction to the device.
10. A patient’s subcutaneous cardiac rhythm monitor is damaged, and a healthcare provider performs the removal procedure.