33969 Ecmo/ecls removal perph cannula
Also known as: ECMO peripheral removal, peripheral ECLS removal, cannula removal
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation/extracorporeal life support removal of peripheral venous/arterial cannula; removal of peripherally placed ECMO cannulae.
In Plain Language
Removal of ECMO peripheral tubing; Peripheral heart-lung support catheter removal
Clinical Context
Removal of peripheral ECMO cannulae at time of ECMO weaning or when weaning from extracorporeal support.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 5.09 |
| Total RVU | 5.09 |
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 5.09, this code ranks in the 34th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.6x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 33969?
CPT 33969 (Ecmo/ecls removal perph cannula) is a Surgery code. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation/extracorporeal life support removal of peripheral venous/arterial cannula; removal of peripherally placed ECMO cannulae.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 33969?
The work RVU for CPT 33969 is 5.09. This code is primarily used by Cardiac Surgery, Critical Care, Vascular Surgery.
When is CPT 33969 used?
Removal of peripheral ECMO cannulae at time of ECMO weaning or when weaning from extracorporeal support.
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.