33820 Repair pda by ligation
Also known as: PDA ligation, ductus ligation, PDA repair
Repair of patent ductus arteriosus by ligation; surgical closure of the patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) through simple ligation without division of the duct.
In Plain Language
Surgery to close the ductus arteriosus; Tying off the fetal blood vessel connection
Clinical Context
Used to treat symptomatic patent ductus arteriosus, a common condition in premature infants where the fetal connection between the aorta and pulmonary artery fails to close, resulting in left-to-right shunting.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 16.27 |
| Total RVU | 16.27 |
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 16.27, this code ranks in the 75th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.0x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 33820?
CPT 33820 (Repair pda by ligation) is a Surgery code. Repair of patent ductus arteriosus by ligation; surgical closure of the patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) through simple ligation without division of the duct.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 33820?
The work RVU for CPT 33820 is 16.27. This code is primarily used by Cardiac Surgery, Congenital Heart Surgery, Pediatric Cardiology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 33820 used?
Used to treat symptomatic patent ductus arteriosus, a common condition in premature infants where the fetal connection between the aorta and pulmonary artery fails to close, resulting in left-to-right shunting.
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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.