CPT code 33216 refers to placing a wire through a vein that is connected to a permanent pacemaker or a defibrillator.
Procedure Explanation:
This medical procedure involves placing a small wire, also called an electrode, into a vein. This wire is then attached to a device that helps monitor and control the heart’s rhythm. The device can be a pacemaker, which helps keep the heart beating regularly, or a defibrillator, which can correct irregular heartbeats. This procedure does not include inserting the actual pacemaker or defibrillator device, just the wire that connects to it.
Common Names:
- Pacemaker Lead Insertion
- Defibrillator Lead Placement
- Transvenous Electrode Implantation
Relative Value Units (RVU):
The RVUs associated with this code are 5.62.
How This Procedure Appears:
- Operating Room Schedule Name: Pacemaker or Defibrillator Lead Insertion
- Surgical Consent Form Name: Insertion of Electrode for Pacemaker or Defibrillator
Typical Patients and Diagnoses:
This procedure is commonly used for patients who have heart rhythm problems. For instance, older adults or people with certain heart conditions might need this procedure to help regulate their heartbeat. Patients with conditions like bradycardia (a slow heart rate) or ventricular tachycardia (a fast heart rate) may be candidates for this procedure.
Associated ICD-10 Codes:
- I49.0: Ventricular fibrillation and flutter, which involves the heart’s lower chambers beating very fast and erratically.
- I49.5: Sick sinus syndrome, a condition where the heart’s natural pacemaker doesn’t function correctly.
- R00.1: Bradycardia, unspecified, meaning the heart is beating slower than normal without a known cause.
Summary
In summary, code 33216 describes the insertion of a wire that connects to a heart rhythm device like a pacemaker or defibrillator. Typical ICD-10 codes associated with 33216 include I49.0 (Ventricular fibrillation and flutter) and I49.5 (Sick sinus syndrome).
Disclaimer
This post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. “CPT” and CPT Codes are registered trademarks of the American Medical Association. HCPCS codes are managed by Medicare and are not subject to copyright.