33256 Ablate atria with bypass exten
Also known as: atrial ablation with bypass, extensive atrial ablation with CPB, MAZE procedure
Ablation of atrial dysrhythmia substrate with cardiopulmonary bypass extension, providing heart-lung machine support for extensive atrial ablation procedures.
In Plain Language
burning atrial tissue with heart-lung machine support; extensive ablation of both atria
Clinical Context
Used for extensive ablation patterns including MAZE procedure for atrial fibrillation; requires bypass support for hemodynamic stability.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 34.03 |
| Total RVU | 34.03 |
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 34.03, this code ranks in the 95th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.3x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 33256?
CPT 33256 (Ablate atria with bypass exten) is a Surgery code. Ablation of atrial dysrhythmia substrate with cardiopulmonary bypass extension, providing heart-lung machine support for extensive atrial ablation procedures.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 33256?
The work RVU for CPT 33256 is 34.03. This code is primarily used by Cardiac Surgery, Cardiothoracic Surgery, Electrophysiology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 33256 used?
Used for extensive ablation patterns including MAZE procedure for atrial fibrillation; requires bypass support for hemodynamic stability.
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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.