When replacing a single chamber permanent pacemaker with a dual chamber, what CPT® code(s) is/are reported?

In the context of replacing a single chamber permanent pacemaker with a dual chamber pacemaker, the correct reporting involves understanding the specific CPT® codes used for these surgical procedures.

The accurate code for the replacement of a single chamber permanent pacemaker is 33213. This code specifically designates the removal of a single chamber pacemaker along with the insertion of a dual chamber pacemaker. The addition of the dual chamber device is captured with the appropriate code for the new device.

In this situation, the dual chamber pacemaker is categorized under additional codes that indicate the complexity of care and the components involved. The correct procedure also considers the need for systematic reporting of all procedures performed during the operation. Hence, the other code(s) might be included to account for the specific placement and management associated with the dual device.

Selecting the singular code 33214 does not encapsulate the nuances of the full procedure needed for replacing a single chamber with a dual chamber system, as it does not reflect the removal of the existing single chamber device.

Therefore, recognizing the complete surgical scenario and ensuring that all parts of the procedure are accurately represented in the coding will lead to the conclusion that the proper representation includes the correct combination of codes, which would not be achieved with just a single