33800 Aortic suspension
Also known as: Aortic suspension, aortic fixation, aortopexy
Aortic suspension; surgical fixation of an abnormally mobile aorta to prevent compression of adjacent structures, typically the left main coronary artery.
In Plain Language
Surgery to anchor the aorta; Aorta stabilization surgery
Clinical Context
Used in patients with anomalous aortic origin or excessive aortic mobility that may compress the left main coronary artery, potentially causing angina or sudden cardiac death during exertion. Suspension from the pulmonary artery relieves the compression.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 16.85 |
| Total RVU | 16.85 |
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 16.85, this code ranks in the 77th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.1x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 33800?
CPT 33800 (Aortic suspension) is a Surgery code. Aortic suspension; surgical fixation of an abnormally mobile aorta to prevent compression of adjacent structures, typically the left main coronary artery.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 33800?
The work RVU for CPT 33800 is 16.85. This code is primarily used by Cardiac Surgery, Congenital Heart Surgery, Cardiothoracic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 33800 used?
Used in patients with anomalous aortic origin or excessive aortic mobility that may compress the left main coronary artery, potentially causing angina or sudden cardiac death during exertion. Suspension from the pulmonary artery relieves the compression.
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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.