33959 Ecmo/ecls reposition perph cnula
Also known as: ECMO peripheral multiple repositioning, serial cannula adjustment, repeated reposition
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation/extracorporeal life support repositioning of peripheral venous/arterial cannula (second or greater repositioning); serial repositioning of peripherally placed cannulae.
In Plain Language
Multiple adjustments of peripheral ECMO tubing; Repeated peripheral catheter movements
Clinical Context
Multiple repositioning procedures of peripheral ECMO cannulae due to recurrent malfunction or complications requiring serial adjustments.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.36 |
| Total RVU | 4.36 |
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 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 4.36, this code ranks in the 30th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.8x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 33959?
CPT 33959 (Ecmo/ecls reposition perph cnula) is a Surgery code. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation/extracorporeal life support repositioning of peripheral venous/arterial cannula (second or greater repositioning); serial repositioning of peripherally placed cannulae.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 33959?
The work RVU for CPT 33959 is 4.36. This code is primarily used by Cardiac Surgery, Vascular Surgery, Critical Care.
When is CPT 33959 used?
Multiple repositioning procedures of peripheral ECMO cannulae due to recurrent malfunction or complications requiring serial adjustments.
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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.