33270 Ins/rep subcutaneous defibrillator
Also known as: S-ICD insertion, subcutaneous defibrillator, S-ICD implant
Insertion or repositioning of a subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillator, placing the device under the skin for arrhythmia therapy.
In Plain Language
placing a defibrillator under the skin without heart wires
Clinical Context
Used for patients needing defibrillation therapy but avoiding traditional transvenous leads; advantages include avoiding vascular access and lead-related complications.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 8.87 |
| Total RVU | 8.87 |
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 8.87, this code ranks in the 54th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.1x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 33270?
CPT 33270 (Ins/rep subcutaneous defibrillator) is a Surgery code. Insertion or repositioning of a subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillator, placing the device under the skin for arrhythmia therapy.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 33270?
The work RVU for CPT 33270 is 8.87. This code is primarily used by Electrophysiology, Cardiology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 33270 used?
Used for patients needing defibrillation therapy but avoiding traditional transvenous leads; advantages include avoiding vascular access and lead-related complications.
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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.