2025 CPT code 33982
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Surgery - Cardiovascular System Surgery Feed
Replacement of a single ventricle ventricular assist device (VAD) pump; implantable, intracorporeal, without cardiopulmonary bypass.
Modifiers may be applicable depending on the specific circumstances of the procedure. Consult the CPT manual for appropriate modifier use.
The medical necessity for VAD pump replacement is based on documented VAD malfunction, reduced pump efficiency, impending failure, or the need to address life-threatening complications.Documentation must support the clinical indication for replacement and the chosen surgical technique.
The cardiothoracic surgeon is responsible for the entire procedure, including pre-operative planning, the surgical replacement of the VAD pump, post-operative care and follow-up.
In simple words: The doctor replaces a part of a heart pump (ventricular assist device or VAD) that was already in the patient's body. This part is replaced without using a heart-lung machine.
This CPT code, 33982, describes the replacement of an implanted ventricular assist device (VAD) pump within a single ventricle.The procedure involves removing the existing pump, connecting a new pump to the cannula, priming and activating the new pump, all without the use of cardiopulmonary bypass.The procedure is performed intracorporeally, meaning within the body, typically requiring a sternotomy (incision of the sternum).
Example 1: A patient with a failing left ventricle has a previously implanted VAD. The pump malfunctions and requires replacement. The surgeon performs a sternotomy, removes the old pump, and inserts a new one without cardiopulmonary bypass., A patient with a right ventricular assist device experiences pump failure requiring immediate replacement. The surgeon performs the procedure, replacing the pump via sternotomy, without needing cardiopulmonary bypass., A patient with a single-ventricle VAD requires pump replacement due to wear and tear after several years. The surgeon replaces the pump in a planned procedure utilizing a minimally invasive approach and avoiding the need for cardiopulmonary bypass.
Pre-operative assessment including echocardiogram, cardiac catheterization results, and patient history. Intraoperative records documenting the type of VAD, specifics of the pump replacement, and the absence of cardiopulmonary bypass. Post-operative echocardiogram and VAD function assessment.Complete surgical notes including incision and closure details.
** This code should only be used when the VAD pump is replaced and cardiopulmonary bypass is not utilized.If cardiopulmonary bypass is necessary or both ventricles are involved, a different code may be appropriate.
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: No TC modifier is applicable for this code.
- Specialties:Cardiothoracic Surgery
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center