33863 Ascending aortic graft
Also known as: Ascending aortic graft, ascending aorta replacement, tubular graft
Ascending aortic graft; surgical replacement of the ascending thoracic aorta with a prosthetic graft for treatment of aneurysm, dissection, or other pathology requiring ascending aortic reconstruction.
In Plain Language
Heart surgery to replace upper main artery; Aorta replacement surgery
Clinical Context
Standard procedure for ascending aortic disease including aneurysm, dissection, and degeneration. Utilizes woven Dacron or composite grafts with preservation of coronary ostia and aortic valve when feasible.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 57.32 |
| Total RVU | 57.32 |
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 57.32, this code ranks in the 99th percentile among Surgery codes — 7.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 33863?
CPT 33863 (Ascending aortic graft) is a Surgery code. Ascending aortic graft; surgical replacement of the ascending thoracic aorta with a prosthetic graft for treatment of aneurysm, dissection, or other pathology requiring ascending aortic reconstruction.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 33863?
The work RVU for CPT 33863 is 57.32. This code is primarily used by Cardiac Surgery, Cardiothoracic Surgery, Vascular Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 33863 used?
Standard procedure for ascending aortic disease including aneurysm, dissection, and degeneration. Utilizes woven Dacron or composite grafts with preservation of coronary ostia and aortic valve when feasible.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against MGMA data — all in one app.
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.