33203 Insert epicard eltrd endoscopic
Also known as: thoracoscopic lead placement, endoscopic epicardial electrode, VATS lead placement
Insertion of epicardial electrode/electrodes via endoscopic (thoracoscopic) approach. Minimally invasive placement of cardiac leads on epicardium.
In Plain Language
camera-assisted surgery to attach wires to heart
Clinical Context
Used for epicardial lead placement with reduced morbidity compared to open surgery. Allows visualization with minimal tissue trauma.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 13.62 |
| Total RVU | 13.62 |
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 13.62, this code ranks in the 69th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.7x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 33203?
CPT 33203 (Insert epicard eltrd endoscopic) is a Surgery code. Insertion of epicardial electrode/electrodes via endoscopic (thoracoscopic) approach. Minimally invasive placement of cardiac leads on epicardium.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 33203?
The work RVU for CPT 33203 is 13.62. This code is primarily used by Cardiac Surgery, Cardiology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 33203 used?
Used for epicardial lead placement with reduced morbidity compared to open surgery. Allows visualization with minimal tissue trauma.
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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.