2025 CPT code 33210
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Surgery - Surgical Procedures on the Cardiovascular System Feed
Insertion or replacement of temporary transvenous single chamber cardiac electrode or pacemaker catheter (separate procedure).
Modifiers can be applied to provide additional information about the service. Examples include modifier 22 (Increased procedural services), modifier 59 (Distinct procedural service) and modifier 76 (Repeat procedure or service by same physician).
Medical necessity for temporary pacing must be clearly documented, indicating the patient's underlying condition and why temporary pacing is required. The documentation should support that the benefits of temporary pacing outweigh the risks.
The physician prepares the patient, makes an incision, and inserts the electrode catheter through a vein, using imaging guidance to ensure proper placement in the heart chamber. The lead is then connected to an external temporary generator.
In simple words: This procedure involves placing a temporary wire into the heart through a vein to help regulate the heartbeat. It's used when a temporary boost to the heart's rhythm is needed.
This code describes a procedure where a temporary pacemaker catheter or electrode is inserted or replaced into a single heart chamber via a vein. This is typically done when temporary pacing is needed, such as during surgery or after a heart attack.
Example 1: A patient experiences a slow heart rate after a heart attack and requires temporary pacing support until their heart rhythm stabilizes., During open-heart surgery, the heart's natural pacemaker function is temporarily disrupted, necessitating a temporary pacing wire to maintain a steady heartbeat during the procedure., A patient with a known heart rhythm problem is admitted for a procedure that could potentially affect their heart rate. A temporary pacemaker is placed prophylactically to manage any rhythm disturbances that may arise.
Documentation should include the reason for temporary pacing, the type of electrode/catheter used, placement details, and any complications encountered. The medical record should also note the patient's heart rhythm before, during, and after the procedure.
** It's important to distinguish between temporary and permanent pacemaker procedures. Code 33210 is specifically for temporary pacemaker insertion/replacement. It is essential to ensure the documentation clearly reflects the temporary nature of the procedure.For permanent pacemaker procedures different codes are used.
- Revenue Code: P2E - Major Procedure, Cardiovascular - Pacemaker Insertion
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Cardiology, Cardiothoracic Surgery, Cardiac Electrophysiology
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center