33988 Insertion of left heart vent
Also known as: LVAD insertion, left heart vent placement, VAD insertion
Insertion of a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) or left heart ventricular assist device. Surgical placement of mechanical support pump to augment cardiac output.
In Plain Language
putting in a heart pump; mechanical heart support; artificial pump to help the left heart
Clinical Context
Used for acute decompensated heart failure, cardiogenic shock, or bridge to transplantation. Critical for patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 14.63 |
| Total RVU | 14.63 |
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 14.63, this code ranks in the 72nd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.8x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 33988?
CPT 33988 (Insertion of left heart vent) is a Surgery code. Insertion of a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) or left heart ventricular assist device. Surgical placement of mechanical support pump to augment cardiac output.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 33988?
The work RVU for CPT 33988 is 14.63. This code is primarily used by Cardiac Surgery, Thoracic Surgery, Cardiology.
When is CPT 33988 used?
Used for acute decompensated heart failure, cardiogenic shock, or bridge to transplantation. Critical for patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction.
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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.