In simple words: The doctor removes the main part of an implanted heart defibrillator (the battery and electronics), leaving the wires in place. This is usually done if the device is malfunctioning, infected, or the battery is worn out.

This procedure involves the surgical removal of the pulse generator component of an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD).The ICD's pulse generator is removed, while the leads remain in place. This is often necessary due to device malfunction, infection, or battery depletion. The procedure includes opening the existing subcutaneous pocket, disconnecting the pulse generator from the leads, removing the pulse generator, and closing the pocket and skin.

Example 1: A patient experiences an ICD malfunction requiring pulse generator removal. The leads remain functional and are not replaced., A patient develops an infection around the ICD.The pulse generator is removed to control the infection. The leads are left in place., A patient's ICD requires replacement due to battery depletion. The old pulse generator is removed as part of the replacement procedure.

Preoperative and postoperative notes, operative report detailing the removal procedure,imaging studies (if any used during removal), pathology reports (if tissue was sent for analysis).

** This code should only be used when the pulse generator is removed and the leads remain in place. If leads are also removed, additional codes should be used.Always refer to the most current CPT manual and payer guidelines for specific billing requirements.