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2025 CPT code 33130

Resection of an external cardiac tumor.

Follow CPT guidelines for surgical procedures on the cardiovascular system.Accurate coding requires detailed documentation of the procedure and any associated services. Always consult the latest CPT manual for the most updated guidelines and coding conventions.

Modifiers may be applied depending on the specific circumstances of the procedure (e.g., 51 for multiple procedures, 59 for distinct procedural services, 22 for increased procedural services).

Surgical resection is medically necessary for symptomatic external cardiac tumors that compromise cardiac function or cause other clinical symptoms.The decision to operate on asymptomatic tumors may be based on the size, location and potential for growth.

The surgeon is responsible for all aspects of the procedure, including patient preparation, incision, tumor resection, pericardial repair (if necessary), wound closure, and post-operative care.Anesthesiologists are involved with administering and monitoring anesthesia.Other specialists such as cardiologists may be involved in pre- and postoperative management.

IMPORTANT:For excision of an intracardiac tumor with the patient on cardiopulmonary bypass, see 33120.Additional codes may be necessary depending on the complexity of the procedure and any concomitant procedures performed (e.g., valve repair or replacement).

In simple words: The doctor removes a tumor from outside the heart.This involves opening the chest, accessing the heart, removing the tumor, and closing the chest.

This CPT code, 33130, describes the surgical resection of an external cardiac tumor.The procedure involves a full median sternotomy (incision along the sternum) to access the heart, opening the pericardium (sac surrounding the heart), and removing the tumor.A pericardial patch may be used to repair any defects.The incision is then closed and the wound dressed.The procedure may or may not involve cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), depending on the tumor's location and complexity.

Example 1: A 55-year-old patient presents with a large, symptomatic pericardial tumor.A full median sternotomy is performed to access the tumor.The tumor is successfully resected, and the pericardium is repaired using a pericardial patch. The patient recovers well., A 70-year-old patient undergoes resection of a small, asymptomatic, external cardiac tumor discovered incidentally during another cardiac procedure.The procedure is performed through a smaller incision, and cardiopulmonary bypass is not required., A 60-year-old patient presents with a malignant tumor involving the pericardium and surrounding structures. The procedure involves extensive resection of the tumor and surrounding tissue requiring a complex reconstruction.Cardiopulmonary bypass is utilized.

* Preoperative echocardiogram and CT scan to assess tumor size and location* Operative report detailing the procedure, including the type of incision, the approach to the tumor, and the extent of resection* Pathology report confirming the diagnosis and extent of resection* Postoperative echocardiogram to assess for any complications* Complete medical history and physical examination

** The complexity of the procedure and the need for cardiopulmonary bypass will significantly impact the total cost and time associated with the procedure. Always ensure complete and accurate documentation to support medical necessity and appropriate coding.

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