33516 Cabg vein six or more
Also known as: six or more vessel CABG, extensive CABG, multiple vein bypass
Surgical placement of six or more coronary artery bypass grafts using saphenous vein conduits, providing complete multivessel revascularization.
In Plain Language
six or more vein bypasses for heart artery disease
Clinical Context
Used for the most extensive coronary disease affecting six or more vessels/territories; achieves complete myocardial revascularization in patients with diffuse atherosclerotic disease.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 48.52 |
| Total RVU | 48.52 |
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 48.52, this code ranks in the 99th percentile among Surgery codes — 6.1x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 33516?
CPT 33516 (Cabg vein six or more) is a Surgery code. Surgical placement of six or more coronary artery bypass grafts using saphenous vein conduits, providing complete multivessel revascularization.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 33516?
The work RVU for CPT 33516 is 48.52. This code is primarily used by Cardiac Surgery, Thoracic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 33516 used?
Used for the most extensive coronary disease affecting six or more vessels/territories; achieves complete myocardial revascularization in patients with diffuse atherosclerotic disease.
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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.