33261 Ablate heart dysrhythm focus
Also known as: surgical ablation with bypass, single focus ablation on pump
Ablation of a single arrhythmia focus within the heart via surgical approach, with cardiopulmonary bypass support, treating dysrhythmias at their origin point.
In Plain Language
burning abnormal heart rhythm area with heart-lung machine support
Clinical Context
Used for single arrhythmia focus ablation requiring bypass support for hemodynamic stability in complex cases.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 28.20 |
| Total RVU | 28.20 |
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 28.20, this code ranks in the 91st percentile among Surgery codes — 3.5x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 33261?
CPT 33261 (Ablate heart dysrhythm focus) is a Surgery code. Ablation of a single arrhythmia focus within the heart via surgical approach, with cardiopulmonary bypass support, treating dysrhythmias at their origin point.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 33261?
The work RVU for CPT 33261 is 28.20. This code is primarily used by Cardiac Surgery, Cardiothoracic Surgery, Electrophysiology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 33261 used?
Used for single arrhythmia focus ablation requiring bypass support for hemodynamic stability in complex cases.
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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.