33016 Pericardiocentesis with imaging
Also known as: pericardiocentesis with ultrasound, guided pericardial aspiration, ECG-gated pericardiocentesis
Pericardiocentesis (aspiration of fluid from the pericardial sac) with imaging guidance. Percutaneous needle aspiration under ultrasound or other imaging control.
Clinical Context
Used to aspirate pericardial effusion for diagnostic analysis or therapeutic relief of tamponade. Imaging guidance improves safety and success rates.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.29 |
| Practice Expense RVU | 0.83 |
| Malpractice RVU | 0.99 |
| Total RVU | 6.11 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Specialties
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.