2025 CPT code 33244
Removal of single or dual chamber implantable defibrillator electrode(s) by transvenous extraction.
Modifiers may be applicable in certain situations, such as increased procedural services (22) or discontinued procedures (53).
Medical necessity must be clearly documented and may include device infection, lead malfunction, or other clinical indications necessitating removal.
The physician is responsible for prepping and anesthetizing the patient, making the necessary incisions, disconnecting the electrode leads, and skillfully extracting them through a vein. This often requires specialized tools and techniques to free the leads from surrounding tissue and ensure their safe removal. The physician also closes the incisions and manages any potential complications.
In simple words: The doctor removes wires connected to your heart's defibrillator by pulling them out through a vein. This is done when the defibrillator isn't working, is infected, or is no longer needed.
This code describes a procedure where a physician removes either a single or dual chamber implantable defibrillator electrode(s) through a vein (transvenously). This technique is typically employed when the device is malfunctioning, infected, or no longer needed. The procedure involves making an incision to access the device pocket, disconnecting the leads from the generator, and then carefully extracting them through a vein, often using specialized tools.
Example 1: A patient with an infected implantable defibrillator requires removal of the device and leads via transvenous extraction., A patient's defibrillator lead has malfunctioned, necessitating its removal using a transvenous approach., A patient who no longer needs an implantable defibrillator undergoes transvenous lead extraction.
Documentation should include the medical necessity for the procedure (e.g., infection, malfunction), the type of defibrillator system (single or dual chamber), the method of extraction (transvenous), any complications encountered, and the final outcome.
- Specialties:Cardiology, Cardiac Surgery, Electrophysiology
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center