CPT code 33880 is used for endovascular repair of the thoracic aorta, including the subclavian artery, indicating a specific medical procedure.
CPT code 33880 is used to describe an endovascular repair procedure of the thoracic aorta, which includes the subclavian artery. This code is specifically for the placement of an endograft, a type of stent graft, to repair an aneurysm or dissection in the thoracic aorta. The procedure is minimally invasive, performed through a catheter inserted into the blood vessels, and is designed to reinforce the weakened section of the aorta, preventing rupture or further complications. This code is typically used by healthcare providers to document and bill for this specific type of endovascular repair.
For CPT code 33880, which involves endovascular repair, the following modifiers may be applicable:
1. Modifier 22 (Increased Procedural Services): Use this modifier if the procedure required significantly more work than typically required. This could be due to increased complexity or additional time spent.
2. Modifier 50 (Bilateral Procedure): If the procedure is performed on both sides of the body, this modifier should be used to indicate a bilateral procedure.
3. Modifier 51 (Multiple Procedures): Apply this modifier when multiple procedures are performed during the same surgical session. It indicates that the procedure is one of several performed.
4. Modifier 52 (Reduced Services): Use this modifier if the procedure was partially reduced or eliminated at the physician's discretion.
5. 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.
6. Modifier 62 (Two Surgeons): If two surgeons are required to perform the procedure, this modifier should be used to indicate that both surgeons are involved in the case.
7. Modifier 66 (Surgical Team): Use this modifier when a team of surgeons is necessary to perform the procedure due to its complexity.
8. Modifier 76 (Repeat Procedure by Same Physician): If the same physician needs to repeat the procedure, this modifier should be applied.
9. Modifier 77 (Repeat Procedure by Another Physician): Use this modifier if a different physician repeats the procedure.
10. Modifier 78 (Unplanned Return to the Operating/Procedure Room): This modifier is used when a patient requires an unplanned return to the operating room for a related procedure during the postoperative period.
11. Modifier 79 (Unrelated Procedure or Service by the Same Physician During the Postoperative Period): Apply this modifier if an unrelated procedure is performed by the same physician during the postoperative period.
These modifiers help provide additional information about the circumstances under which the procedure was performed, ensuring accurate billing and reimbursement. Always verify with the latest coding guidelines and payer-specific requirements, as these can vary.
CPT code 33880 is subject to reimbursement considerations under Medicare, but whether it is reimbursed depends on several factors, including its inclusion in the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) and the specific guidelines set by the Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) in your region.
The MPFS provides a comprehensive list of services covered by Medicare, along with their respective reimbursement rates. However, coverage can vary based on local policies established by the MAC, which administers Medicare claims and determines coverage specifics in different geographic areas.
Therefore, to ascertain if CPT code 33880 is reimbursed by Medicare, healthcare providers should consult the MPFS for the current year and verify with their local MAC for any regional coverage determinations or additional documentation requirements.
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