33688 Closure 1vsd with wo ptch removal bnd
Also known as: VSD closure with band removal, completion VSD repair, single VSD band removal
Surgical closure of a single ventricular septal defect with removal of a previously placed pulmonary artery band.
In Plain Language
closing hole and removing band from lung artery
Clinical Context
Performed as definitive completion procedure following earlier PA banding palliation; achieves hemodynamic correction through combined VSD closure and PA debanding.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 33.88 |
| Total RVU | 33.88 |
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 33.88, this code ranks in the 95th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 33688?
CPT 33688 (Closure 1vsd with wo ptch removal bnd) is a Surgery code. Surgical closure of a single ventricular septal defect with removal of a previously placed pulmonary artery band.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 33688?
The work RVU for CPT 33688 is 33.88. This code is primarily used by Cardiac Surgery, Congenital Cardiology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 33688 used?
Performed as definitive completion procedure following earlier PA banding palliation; achieves hemodynamic correction through combined VSD closure and PA debanding.
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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.