July 18, 2014
Coding for Impella® Heart Device
Per the manufacturer (Abiomed), the Impella® Heart Device/ Circulatory Support System is a: minimally invasive percutaneous catheter based support device, designed to provide partial circulatory support. The Impella® is not a ventricular assist device designed to provide transition to transplant; it is designed to assist during revascularization procedures for a short term (6-8 hours).
Effective for dates of service on or after January 1, 2013, submit CPT code 33990 or 33991, as appropriate, for insertion of this device. Because specific codes exist for insertion of this ventricular assist device, it is not appropriate to submit the surgical procedure with CPT code 33999 (unlisted procedure, cardiac surgery). For removal or repositioning of the device, utilize CPT code 33992 or 33993 respectively ONLY when performed at a separate and distinct session from insertion. Otherwise these procedures are bundled into the fee schedule allowance for insertion.
Remember to accurately code the cardiac catheterization procedure performed and any other procedure (such as an angioplasty or stenting) performed during the same operative session.
Reviewed 12.09.2022