2025 CPT code 33968
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Surgery - Cardiovascular System Surgery Feed
Removal of a percutaneously inserted intra-aortic balloon pump.
Modifiers 59 (distinct procedural service), 76 (repeat procedure by same physician), may be applicable depending on the circumstances of the removal.
IABP removal is medically necessary when the patient's hemodynamic stability improves and the need for circulatory support is no longer present.Documentation must support the medical necessity.
The physician's responsibility includes weaning the patient from the IABP, removing the device, controlling hemostasis, and monitoring the patient for complications such as bleeding or hematoma formation at the insertion site.
In simple words: The doctor removes a balloon pump that was inserted into an artery in the leg. This helps support the heart. After removing the pump, the doctor applies pressure to stop any bleeding and watches for problems.
This CPT code represents the removal of a percutaneously placed intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP).The procedure involves weaning the patient off the device, discontinuing balloon pumping, removing sutures, applying manual pressure to the femoral artery, withdrawing the catheter, and managing hemostasis. Post-procedure monitoring for bleeding or hematoma formation at the insertion site is crucial.
Example 1: A patient presents post-cardiac surgery requiring IABP support.After hemodynamic stabilization, the IABP is removed percutaneously using code 33968.Close monitoring for bleeding is essential., A patient experiences cardiogenic shock and an IABP is inserted percutaneously. Following stabilization, the IABP is removed using code 33968. Documentation should include details on the removal and post-procedural assessment., During a cardiac catheterization, an IABP is placed percutaneously. The IABP is later removed on the same day in a separate procedure using code 33968, with modifier 59 to indicate distinct procedural service.Detailed documentation is required to support separate billing.
* Pre-procedure assessment of the patient's hemodynamic status.* Procedure notes detailing the removal technique, including hemostasis management.* Post-procedure assessment including vital signs, bleeding, and signs of hematoma.* Medical record indicating the necessity of IABP removal.
** Removal of IABP is a time-sensitive procedure requiring skilled intervention.Any complications during the procedure should be documented comprehensively.
- Revenue Code: P6C (Minor Procedures - Other)
- RVU: Data unavailable. RVUs vary based on geographical location, facility type, and other factors. Consult local fee schedules for specific values.
- Global Days : This procedure typically does not have a global surgical period.The removal is considered a separate and distinct procedure.
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: Not applicable.The removal of the IABP is a complete procedure, not a technical component.
- Fee Schedule : Data unavailable.Historical fee schedule information can be obtained from the Centers for MedicareMedicaid Services (CMS) and other payers.
- Specialties:Cardiology, Cardiovascular Surgery
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Cardiac Catheterization Lab