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33230, 33231, 33240, 33262, 33263, 33264

Date: Mar 19, 2012

Question:

My question concerns the application of the new ICD codes. When would we use the 33230, 33231 and 33240 cpts codes? Definition states "with existing leads" on each of these codes so would lean to use for generator change procedures. BUT, we have the new ICD rem/replacement codes 33262,33263 and 33264 for "battery change" procedures. "An Insider's View" release covering the 33230, 33231 and 33240 CPT 2012 changes/additions interpretation would lead me to believe would be used in a "staged" procedure where a surgeon placed epicardial leads and patient was sent to Cardiology for generator placement. That would require the use/application of CPT codes 33202-33203 for lead placement which throws us into Inpatient Only codes. Your insight/instructions will be greatly appreaciated.
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