33953 Ecmo/ecls insj prph cannula
Also known as: ECMO central cannulation, ECLS central insertion, central ECMO access
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation/extracorporeal life support insertion of central venous and/or arterial cannula; open surgical placement of central cannulae through median sternotomy or thoracotomy.
In Plain Language
Placement of life support tubing in heart vessels; Central heart-lung machine connection
Clinical Context
Surgical placement of central cannulae (direct right atrial and ascending aortic cannulation) for ECMO support when peripheral access is contraindicated or inadequate.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 8.88 |
| Total RVU | 8.88 |
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 0-day global period, meaning pre- and post-operative E&M visits are billable separately on the same day. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 8.88, this code ranks in the 54th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.1x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 33953?
CPT 33953 (Ecmo/ecls insj prph cannula) is a Surgery code. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation/extracorporeal life support insertion of central venous and/or arterial cannula; open surgical placement of central cannulae through median sternotomy or thoracotomy.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 33953?
The work RVU for CPT 33953 is 8.88. This code is primarily used by Cardiac Surgery, Cardiothoracic Surgery, Critical Care.
When is CPT 33953 used?
Surgical placement of central cannulae (direct right atrial and ascending aortic cannulation) for ECMO support when peripheral access is contraindicated or inadequate.
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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.