Please note this question was answered in 2021. The coding advice may or may not be outdated.
Percutaneous Pericardial window for cardiac tamponade
Date: Dec 3, 2021
Question:
"Under fluoroscopic guidance the pericardial spaces was accessed using a Tuohy needle and contrast guidance. A 035 J wire was placed. 660 cc of bloody fluid was removed using a Boston Scientific pericardial drain. The pericardium was then dilated with a 40 x 10 Powerflex balloon creating a window. Echocardiography documented no residual fluid. Fluoroscopically the left heart border moved well. No more fluid could be aspirated. The drain was then removed and an occlusive dressing was applied."
Provider wants to bill code 33025. I disagree and am leaning toward 33016 since the drain was removed. Thoughts?
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