33956 Ecmo/ecls insj ctr cannula
Also known as: ECMO central repositioning, central cannula adjustment, ECLS central reposition
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation/extracorporeal life support repositioning of central venous/arterial cannula; repositioning of centrally placed cannulae during ongoing ECMO support.
In Plain Language
Adjustment of central ECMO tubing position; ECMO central catheter movement
Clinical Context
Repositioning of central ECMO cannulae due to inadequate positioning, malfunction, or other intraoperative concerns requiring adjustment.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 15.60 |
| Total RVU | 15.60 |
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 15.60, this code ranks in the 74th 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 33956?
CPT 33956 (Ecmo/ecls insj ctr cannula) is a Surgery code. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation/extracorporeal life support repositioning of central venous/arterial cannula; repositioning of centrally placed cannulae during ongoing ECMO support.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 33956?
The work RVU for CPT 33956 is 15.60. This code is primarily used by Cardiac Surgery, Cardiothoracic Surgery, Critical Care.
When is CPT 33956 used?
Repositioning of central ECMO cannulae due to inadequate positioning, malfunction, or other intraoperative concerns requiring adjustment.
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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.