33986 Ecmo/ecls removal ctr cannula
Also known as: ECMO central second removal, additional central cannula removal, second central removal
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation/extracorporeal life support removal of central venous/arterial cannula (second removal); removal of additional centrally placed ECMO cannulae.
In Plain Language
Removal of second central ECMO tubing; Additional central catheter removal
Clinical Context
Removal of additional central ECMO cannulae when multiple central cannulae were placed and require removal.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 9.75 |
| Total RVU | 9.75 |
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 9.75, this code ranks in the 58th 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 33986?
CPT 33986 (Ecmo/ecls removal ctr cannula) is a Surgery code. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation/extracorporeal life support removal of central venous/arterial cannula (second removal); removal of additional centrally placed ECMO cannulae.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 33986?
The work RVU for CPT 33986 is 9.75. This code is primarily used by Cardiac Surgery, Critical Care, Cardiothoracic Surgery.
When is CPT 33986 used?
Removal of additional central ECMO cannulae when multiple central cannulae were placed and require removal.
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.