33979 Insert intracorporeal device
Also known as: Implantable LVAD, intracorporeal VAD, internal heart pump
Insertion of intracorporeal ventricular assist device; surgical implantation of a fully implantable left ventricular assist device.
In Plain Language
Implantable heart pump placement; Internal mechanical heart support
Clinical Context
Surgical implantation of newer generation fully implantable left ventricular assist devices for destination therapy or bridge to transplantation.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 36.56 |
| Total RVU | 36.56 |
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. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 36.56, this code ranks in the 96th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.6x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 33979?
CPT 33979 (Insert intracorporeal device) is a Surgery code. Insertion of intracorporeal ventricular assist device; surgical implantation of a fully implantable left ventricular assist device.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 33979?
The work RVU for CPT 33979 is 36.56. This code is primarily used by Cardiac Surgery, Heart Failure Surgery, Transplantation.
When is CPT 33979 used?
Surgical implantation of newer generation fully implantable left ventricular assist devices for destination therapy or bridge to transplantation.
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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.