33572 Open coronary endarterectomy
Also known as: coronary endarterectomy, coronary artery plaque removal, open endarterectomy
Surgical removal of atherosclerotic plaque from a coronary artery using an endarterectomy technique under direct visualization.
In Plain Language
removing plaque buildup from heart artery
Clinical Context
Indicated for diffuse coronary artery disease not suitable for bypass alone; provides revascularization of otherwise un-graftable vessels with acceptable long-term outcomes.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.33 |
| Total RVU | 4.33 |
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. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 4.33, this code ranks in the 30th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.8x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 33572?
CPT 33572 (Open coronary endarterectomy) is a Surgery code. Surgical removal of atherosclerotic plaque from a coronary artery using an endarterectomy technique under direct visualization.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 33572?
The work RVU for CPT 33572 is 4.33. This code is primarily used by Cardiac Surgery, Vascular Surgery.
When is CPT 33572 used?
Indicated for diffuse coronary artery disease not suitable for bypass alone; provides revascularization of otherwise un-graftable vessels with acceptable long-term outcomes.
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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.