CPT CODES

CPT Code 33786

CPT code 33786 is used for the procedure involving the repair of an arterial trunk, essential for accurate medical procedure documentation.

Accelerate your revenue cycle

Boost patient experience and your bottom line by automating patient cost estimates, payer underpayment detection, and contract optimization in one place.

Get a Demo

What is CPT Code 33786

CPT code 33786 is used to describe the surgical procedure for repairing an arterial trunk. This code is specifically utilized when a healthcare provider performs a repair on the main arterial trunk, which is a critical component of the cardiovascular system. The procedure typically involves correcting defects or damage to ensure proper blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body. This code is essential for accurate billing and documentation in the healthcare revenue cycle, ensuring that the provider is reimbursed appropriately for the complex and specialized nature of the surgery.

Does CPT 33786 Need a Modifier?

For CPT code 33786, "Repair arterial trunk," the following modifiers may be applicable depending on the specific circumstances of the procedure and the billing requirements:

1. Modifier 22 - Increased Procedural Services: This modifier is used when the work required to perform the procedure is substantially greater than typically required. Documentation must support the substantial additional work and the reason for it.

2. Modifier 51 - Multiple Procedures: If multiple procedures are performed during the same surgical session, this modifier indicates that multiple procedures were performed.

3. Modifier 59 - Distinct Procedural Service: This modifier is used to indicate that a procedure or service was distinct or independent from other services performed on the same day. It is used to identify procedures that are not normally reported together but are appropriate under the circumstances.

4. Modifier 62 - Two Surgeons: When two surgeons work together as primary surgeons performing distinct parts of a procedure, each surgeon should report their distinct operative work by adding this modifier.

5. Modifier 66 - Surgical Team: This modifier is used when a complex procedure requires the services of several physicians, often of different specialties, working together as a team.

6. Modifier 78 - Unplanned Return to the Operating/Procedure Room by the Same Physician Following Initial Procedure for a Related Procedure During the Postoperative Period: This is used when a patient requires a return to the operating room for a related procedure during the postoperative period.

7. Modifier 79 - Unrelated Procedure or Service by the Same Physician During the Postoperative Period: This modifier is used when a procedure performed during the postoperative period is unrelated to the original procedure.

8. Modifier 80 - Assistant Surgeon: This modifier is used when an assistant surgeon is required for the procedure.

9. Modifier 81 - Minimum Assistant Surgeon: This is used when an assistant surgeon is required for a portion of the procedure.

10. Modifier 82 - Assistant Surgeon (when qualified resident surgeon not available): This modifier is used when a qualified resident surgeon is not available, and an assistant surgeon is required.

Each modifier should be used in accordance with payer policies and specific documentation requirements to ensure proper billing and reimbursement.

CPT Code 33786 Medicare Reimbursement

CPT code 33786, which involves the repair of an arterial trunk, is subject to reimbursement considerations under Medicare. To determine if this specific CPT code is reimbursed by Medicare, healthcare providers should refer to the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS). The MPFS provides detailed information on the reimbursement rates and coverage status for various CPT codes, including surgical procedures like 33786.

Additionally, it is important to consult with the relevant Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) for your region. MACs are responsible for processing Medicare claims and can provide specific guidance on whether CPT code 33786 is covered and reimbursed in your area. They may also offer insights into any local coverage determinations (LCDs) that could affect reimbursement for this procedure. Therefore, checking both the MPFS and consulting with your MAC are essential steps in verifying the reimbursement status of CPT code 33786 under Medicare.

Are You Being Underpaid for 33786 CPT Code?

Discover the power of MD Clarity's RevFind software to ensure you're receiving the full reimbursement you deserve. With the ability to read your contracts and detect underpayments down to the CPT code level, including CPT code 33786, RevFind provides unparalleled accuracy and insight. Schedule a demo today to see how RevFind can help you identify discrepancies by individual payer and enhance your revenue cycle management.

Get paid in full by bringing clarity to your revenue cycle

Full Page Background