2025 CPT code 33262
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Surgery - Implantable Defibrillator Procedures Cardiovascular System Feed
Removal and replacement of an implantable defibrillator pulse generator in a single-lead system.
Modifiers may be applicable depending on the circumstances of the procedure. Consult the CPT manual and payer guidelines for appropriate modifier usage.
Medical necessity for this procedure is established when the existing ICD pulse generator is malfunctioning, has reached the end of its battery life, or requires replacement due to a complication or recall.
The physician is responsible for the entire procedure, including pre-operative assessment, device removal and replacement, lead inspection and connection, pocket revision (if necessary), and post-operative care within the global period.
In simple words: The doctor removes the old battery pack of a heart defibrillator and replaces it with a new one.This only involves one wire to the heart.
This procedure involves the removal of a malfunctioning or end-of-life implantable defibrillator (ICD) pulse generator and its replacement with a new generator.The existing single lead is inspected for functionality and integrity. A new pulse generator is then connected to the existing lead and implanted subcutaneously.The procedure includes creation or revision of the subcutaneous pocket as needed. Radiological supervision and interpretation are included.
Example 1: A 70-year-old male patient with a single-lead ICD implanted 5 years ago presents with battery depletion. The physician performs a 33262, replacing the pulse generator while leaving the existing lead in place., A 65-year-old female patient experiences ICD malfunction.During the procedure (33262), the physician removes the malfunctioning pulse generator and replaces it with a new one, after confirming the integrity of the lead., A 58-year-old male patient presents with a pocket infection around his single-lead ICD. The physician performs a 33262, removing and replacing the pulse generator and thoroughly cleaning the pocket.Appropriate wound care codes are added as necessary.
* Pre-operative assessment including patient history, physical exam, and ECG.* Intra-operative findings, including lead integrity assessment.* Post-operative assessment, including device function check.* Operative report detailing the procedure.* Appropriate imaging studies (such as chest X-ray)
** Accurate coding requires precise documentation of the procedure, including lead integrity assessment and any additional procedures performed.Consult the most current CPT manual and payer-specific guidelines for complete information.
- RVU: The relative value units will vary depending on the geographic location and payer. Consult the relevant fee schedule for the specific RVUs.
- Global Days: The global period is included in the code itself, and there is no additional separate billing for post-operative care related to this procedure within the global period.
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: A technical component (TC) modifier is not applicable to this code.
- Fee Schedule: Fee schedules vary by payer and geographic location.The provided information shows payment examples for certain payers, but it's crucial to refer to the current fee schedule applicable to your situation.
- Specialties:Cardiology, Cardiac Surgery, Electrophysiology
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center