33968 Remove aortic assist device
Also known as: IABP removal, balloon pump removal, assist device removal
Removal of aortic assist device; removal of intra-aortic balloon pump or other aortic assist device after hemodynamic support is no longer needed.
In Plain Language
Removal of balloon pump from aorta; Aorta assist device removal
Clinical Context
Removal of IABP or other aortic assist devices at time of weaning from support when adequate cardiac function is recovered.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.62 |
| Total RVU | 0.62 |
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 0.62, this code ranks in the 1st percentile among Surgery codes — 12.9x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 33968?
CPT 33968 (Remove aortic assist device) is a Surgery code. Removal of aortic assist device; removal of intra-aortic balloon pump or other aortic assist device after hemodynamic support is no longer needed.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 33968?
The work RVU for CPT 33968 is 0.62. This code is primarily used by Cardiac Surgery, Critical Care, Cardiology.
When is CPT 33968 used?
Removal of IABP or other aortic assist devices at time of weaning from support when adequate cardiac function is recovered.
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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.