How To Use CPT Code 33962

CPT 33962 describes the repositioning of a peripheral cannula for extracorporeal circulation in a child six years and older. 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 33962?

CPT 33962 can be used to describe the repositioning of a peripheral cannula for extracorporeal circulation in a child who is six years and older. This code is used when a provider uses an open surgical approach to reposition the cannula, allowing for the circulation of blood outside the body through an external device.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 33962 is: ‘Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO)/extracorporeal life support (ECLS) provided by physician; reposition peripheral (arterial and/or venous) cannula(e), open, 6 years and older (includes fluoroscopic guidance, when performed).’ This code should not be reported in conjunction with codes 34714, 34715, 34716, 34812, 34820, or 34834.

3. Procedure

1. The provider accesses the peripheral arterial and/or venous cannula using an open surgical approach.
2. The area around the femoral or other vein or artery is cleaned.
3. The provider repositions the peripheral cannula into the open end of the vessel.
4. The cannula acts as an exit point for oxygen-depleted blood from the body into an external device that acts as an artificial lung or oxygenator.
5. The provider may use fluoroscopic guidance to assist in the repositioning of the cannula.
6. The provider uses an extracorporeal circulation device to actively pump the blood through the oxygenator in the external device, where gas exchange occurs.
7. A heat exchanger warms the blood to body temperature before returning it to the patient through the cannula.
8. The provider closes the incision with sutures.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 33962 is performed on children who are six years and older and require repositioning of a peripheral cannula for extracorporeal circulation. This procedure is typically used when the patient’s condition necessitates the use of an external device to oxygenate the blood and bypass the heart and lungs. The provider may use fluoroscopic guidance during the procedure to ensure accurate placement of the cannula.

5. When to use CPT code 33962

CPT code 33962 should be used when a provider repositions a peripheral cannula for extracorporeal circulation in a child who is six years and older. It is important to note that this code should not be reported in conjunction with certain other codes, as specified in the official description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 33962, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s age
• Reason for repositioning the peripheral cannula
• Details of the open surgical approach used
• Use of fluoroscopic guidance, if applicable
• Specific peripheral cannula repositioned
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the performing physician

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 33962, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria outlined in the official description. It is important to note that this code should not be reported in conjunction with certain other codes. Consider the specific guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate billing and reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT code 33962 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2015. It was later designated as an Inpatient Only (IPO) procedure in 2017.

9. Examples

1. A provider repositions a peripheral cannula for extracorporeal circulation in a seven-year-old child with a congenital heart defect.
2. During an open surgical procedure, a provider repositions a peripheral cannula for extracorporeal circulation in an eight-year-old child undergoing cardiac surgery.
3. A nine-year-old child with respiratory failure requires the repositioning of a peripheral cannula for extracorporeal circulation to support oxygenation.
4. In a ten-year-old child with septic shock, a provider repositions a peripheral cannula for extracorporeal circulation to assist with hemodynamic support.
5. A provider performs the repositioning of a peripheral cannula for extracorporeal circulation in an eleven-year-old child with acute respiratory distress syndrome.
6. During a surgical procedure, a provider repositions a peripheral cannula for extracorporeal circulation in a twelve-year-old child with severe pulmonary hypertension.
7. A thirteen-year-old child with cardiogenic shock requires the repositioning of a peripheral cannula for extracorporeal circulation to support cardiac function.
8. In a fourteen-year-old child undergoing a lung transplant, a provider repositions a peripheral cannula for extracorporeal circulation to facilitate oxygenation during the procedure.
9. A provider performs the repositioning of a peripheral cannula for extracorporeal circulation in a fifteen-year-old child with acute kidney injury requiring renal support.
10. During a complex cardiac procedure, a provider repositions a peripheral cannula for extracorporeal circulation in a sixteen-year-old child with a complex congenital heart defect.