2025 CPT code 33995

Percutaneous insertion of a ventricular assist device (VAD) into the right heart, including radiological supervision and interpretation, using venous access only.

Adhere to the current CPT guidelines for cardiovascular surgery and the specific instructions regarding VAD insertion and ancillary services. Accurate documentation is paramount for correct code assignment.

Modifiers may be applicable depending on the circumstances.Refer to the current CPT manual for applicable modifiers and guidelines.

The procedure is medically necessary when the patient exhibits significant right ventricular dysfunction that compromises hemodynamic stability and threatens organ perfusion. The VAD provides temporary or bridge-to-recovery/transplant support.

The procedure is performed by a cardiothoracic surgeon or interventional cardiologist, requiring expertise in cardiovascular anatomy, percutaneous techniques, and the operation of VAD systems.Preoperative planning, including imaging studies (angiography), and post-operative management of the patient are also under the physician's responsibility.

IMPORTANT 33990, 33991 may be used for other percutaneous VAD insertions depending on specific device and approach.Transthoracic approaches are coded differently (33975, 33976, 33979).

In simple words: The doctor inserts a small pump (VAD) into the patient's heart through a small opening in a vein, using imaging guidance to help position the device. This pump helps the heart pump blood to the rest of the body.

This CPT code (33995) reports the percutaneous insertion of a ventricular assist device (VAD) into the right heart. The procedure involves radiological supervision and interpretation, and access is achieved solely through the venous system.The insertion is performed percutaneously, meaning through the skin, without the need for open-heart surgery.The VAD is a mechanical pump that augments the heart's pumping function, providing hemodynamic support.

Example 1: A 70-year-old male patient presents with severe right heart failure.A percutaneous right VAD (33995) is implanted to support the right ventricle until a heart transplant can be performed., A 65-year-old female patient undergoes a complex cardiac procedure. As a bridge to recovery, a percutaneous right VAD (33995) is inserted to assist the right ventricle during the immediate post-operative period., A 55-year-old patient with severe pulmonary hypertension experiences acute right heart failure. A percutaneous right VAD (33995) is emergently placed to stabilize the patient's condition before definitive treatment.

Detailed history and physical examination, including the indication for VAD support. Pre-operative imaging studies (e.g., echocardiogram, CT scan).Intra-operative documentation detailing the precise location of VAD placement, device specifications, and hemodynamic parameters. Post-operative assessment of VAD function and patient recovery.

** This code is specific to percutaneous right heart VAD insertion via venous access only.Other codes exist for left-sided, biventricular, and transthoracic VAD placements.

  • Payment Status: Active
  • Modifier TC rule: Modifier TC may not be applicable to this code, as it typically applies to procedures with separate professional and technical components.
  • Specialties:Cardiothoracic Surgery, Interventional Cardiology
  • Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory
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