33981 Replace vad pump external
Also known as: VAD pump replacement, external pump exchange, external controller replacement
Replacement of ventricular assist device external pump; replacement of the external pump component of a ventricular assist device without replacing the intracorporeal portion.
In Plain Language
Heart pump external part replacement; VAD pump component exchange
Clinical Context
Replacement of external pump unit in VAD systems with external components when pump malfunction or failure occurs.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 15.71 |
| Total RVU | 15.71 |
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 15.71, this code ranks in the 75th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.0x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 33981?
CPT 33981 (Replace vad pump external) is a Surgery code. Replacement of ventricular assist device external pump; replacement of the external pump component of a ventricular assist device without replacing the intracorporeal portion.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 33981?
The work RVU for CPT 33981 is 15.71. This code is primarily used by Cardiac Surgery, Heart Failure Surgery, Device Management.
When is CPT 33981 used?
Replacement of external pump unit in VAD systems with external components when pump malfunction or failure occurs.
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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.