How To Use CPT Code 33989

CPT code 33989 describes the removal of the left heart vent through a thoracic incision for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) or extracorporeal life support (ECLS). 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 33989?

CPT 33989 can be used to describe the removal of the left heart vent through a thoracic incision for ECMO or ECLS. This code is used when the provider safely removes the vent catheter from the left ventricle of the heart to address complications or when the patient no longer requires the vent.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 33989 is: ‘Removal of left heart vent by thoracic incision (eg, sternotomy, thoracotomy) for ECMO/ECLS.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient and administers anesthesia.
2. Using a prior incision in the thorax, the provider accesses the left ventricle.
3. The provider safely removes the vent catheter from the left ventricle.
4. Hemostasis is ensured, and the incision is closed with sutures in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

Patients eligible to receive CPT 33989 services are those who require the removal of the left heart vent through a thoracic incision for ECMO or ECLS. This procedure is typically performed in cases of complications related to the vent or when the patient no longer needs the vent. The provider must use a thoracic incision, such as a sternotomy or thoracotomy, to access the left ventricle.

5. When to use CPT code 33989

CPT code 33989 should be used when the provider performs the removal of the left heart vent through a thoracic incision for ECMO or ECLS. It should not be used for other procedures or when the vent is not involved.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 33989, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the removal of the left heart vent
• Details of the thoracic incision used
• Date and time of the procedure
• Confirmation of successful removal of the vent
• Details of any complications encountered
• Method of hemostasis
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 33989, ensure that the procedure involves the removal of the left heart vent through a thoracic incision for ECMO or ECLS. It should not be reported with other codes unless necessary. It is important to accurately document the procedure and provide any additional information required for proper billing.

8. Historical information

CPT 33989 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2015. It was later added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare in 2017.

9. Examples

1. A provider removes the left heart vent through a sternotomy incision for a patient on ECMO.
2. A surgeon performs the removal of the left heart vent through a thoracotomy incision for a patient who no longer requires ECLS.
3. A cardiothoracic surgeon safely removes the left heart vent through a thoracic incision for a patient experiencing complications related to the vent.
4. A team of providers performs the removal of the left heart vent through a sternotomy incision for a patient undergoing ECMO.
5. A cardiac surgeon removes the left heart vent through a thoracotomy incision for a patient who no longer needs ECLS.
6. A provider performs the removal of the left heart vent through a thoracic incision for a patient with complications arising from the vent.
7. A cardiothoracic surgeon safely removes the left heart vent through a sternotomy incision for a patient on ECMO.
8. A surgeon performs the removal of the left heart vent through a thoracotomy incision for a patient who no longer requires ECLS.
9. A team of providers removes the left heart vent through a thoracic incision for a patient experiencing complications related to the vent.
10. A cardiac surgeon safely removes the left heart vent through a sternotomy incision for a patient undergoing ECMO.