33031 Partial removal of heart sacral
Also known as: total pericardiectomy, complete pericardial resection, thoracotomy pericardiectomy
Complete pericardiectomy via thoracotomy approach. Total removal of the pericardium through an open chest incision.
In Plain Language
surgery to completely remove sac around heart
Clinical Context
Used for severe constrictive pericarditis or restrictive cardiomyopathy where complete pericardial removal is required. Thoracotomy provides superior access and visualization.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 43.88 |
| Total RVU | 43.88 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. This code has a 90-day global period, which includes the day of the procedure, 1 day preoperative, and 90 days of postoperative care. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 43.88, this code ranks in the 98th percentile among Surgery codes — 5.5x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 33031?
CPT 33031 (Partial removal of heart sacral) is a Surgery code. Complete pericardiectomy via thoracotomy approach. Total removal of the pericardium through an open chest incision.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 33031?
The work RVU for CPT 33031 is 43.88. This code is primarily used by Cardiac Surgery, Cardiothoracic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 33031 used?
Used for severe constrictive pericarditis or restrictive cardiomyopathy where complete pericardial removal is required. Thoracotomy provides superior access and visualization.
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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.