33871 Transverse a-arch grf hypthrm
Also known as: Arch graft HCA, transverse arch repair, full arch replacement
Transverse aortic arch graft with hypothermic circulatory arrest; surgical replacement of the transverse aortic arch with a prosthetic graft under conditions of hypothermia and circulatory arrest for operative visibility and neuroprotection.
In Plain Language
Full aorta arch replacement with cooling technique; Aorta arch surgery with circulatory arrest
Clinical Context
Used for extensive transverse and descending aortic arch pathology including aneurysm and dissection. Hypothermic circulatory arrest provides cerebral protection and excellent operative visualization for branch vessel anastomoses.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 59.36 |
| Total RVU | 59.36 |
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 59.36, this code ranks in the 99th percentile among Surgery codes — 7.4x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 33871?
CPT 33871 (Transverse a-arch grf hypthrm) is a Surgery code. Transverse aortic arch graft with hypothermic circulatory arrest; surgical replacement of the transverse aortic arch with a prosthetic graft under conditions of hypothermia and circulatory arrest for operative visibility and neuroprotection.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 33871?
The work RVU for CPT 33871 is 59.36. This code is primarily used by Cardiac Surgery, Cardiothoracic Surgery, Vascular Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 33871 used?
Used for extensive transverse and descending aortic arch pathology including aneurysm and dissection. Hypothermic circulatory arrest provides cerebral protection and excellent operative visualization for branch vessel anastomoses.
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.