33971 Aortic circulation assist
Also known as: LVAD insertion surgical, surgical VAD implant, open LVAD placement
Aortic circulation assist device insertion or replacement with surgical approach; surgical insertion or replacement of left ventricular assist device or other aortic circulation support system.
In Plain Language
Heart pump surgery insertion; Surgical mechanical heart support placement
Clinical Context
Surgical insertion of LVAD for destination therapy or bridge to transplantation in end-stage heart failure, or replacement of existing device.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 11.69 |
| Total RVU | 11.69 |
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 90-day global period, which includes the day of the procedure, 1 day preoperative, and 90 days of postoperative care. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 11.69, this code ranks in the 64th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.5x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 33971?
CPT 33971 (Aortic circulation assist) is a Surgery code. Aortic circulation assist device insertion or replacement with surgical approach; surgical insertion or replacement of left ventricular assist device or other aortic circulation support system.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 33971?
The work RVU for CPT 33971 is 11.69. This code is primarily used by Cardiac Surgery, Heart Failure Surgery, Transplantation. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 33971 used?
Surgical insertion of LVAD for destination therapy or bridge to transplantation in end-stage heart failure, or replacement of existing device.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against national 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.