Cardiology Coding Alert

Question: Typically I see reports for pacemakers inserted through upper vessels, but I have a case where the cardiologist inserted a dual pacemaker abdominally. Should I still report 33208?

Texas Subscriber

Answer: You may report 33208 (Insertion or replacement of permanent pacemaker with transvenous electrode[s]; atrial and ventricular) because the descriptor does not specify that the cardiologist must place the pacemaker in the chest through upper vessels.

RS&I: When your cardiologist performs and documents radiological supervision and interpretation for the service, remember to report 71090-26 (Insertion pacemaker, fluoroscopy and radiography, radiological supervision and interpretation; Professional component).