33973 Insert balloon device
Also known as: IABP surgical insertion, balloon pump surgical placement, open IABP
Insertion of intra-aortic balloon pump with surgical approach; surgical placement of intra-aortic balloon pump for circulatory support via surgical cutdown.
In Plain Language
Surgical balloon pump insertion; Open placement of aorta balloon support
Clinical Context
Surgical approach to IABP insertion when percutaneous access is not feasible or when surgical approach is preferred, typically via femoral artery cutdown.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 9.51 |
| Total RVU | 9.51 |
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 9.51, this code ranks in the 57th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 33973?
CPT 33973 (Insert balloon device) is a Surgery code. Insertion of intra-aortic balloon pump with surgical approach; surgical placement of intra-aortic balloon pump for circulatory support via surgical cutdown.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 33973?
The work RVU for CPT 33973 is 9.51. This code is primarily used by Cardiac Surgery, Vascular Surgery, Critical Care.
When is CPT 33973 used?
Surgical approach to IABP insertion when percutaneous access is not feasible or when surgical approach is preferred, typically via femoral artery cutdown.
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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.