On Demand: Coding for Heart Transplants, VADs and ECMO-Presentation Slides

Presentation Slides

Pdf Summary

The document focuses on the coding aspects associated with heart transplants, ventricular assist devices (VADs), and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Authored by Joline Bruder and Michelle Platt, it forms part of the offerings from MedAxiom's Revenue Cycle Solutions aimed at medical professionals involved in such procedures.<br /><br />The document provides comprehensive guidance on how to code various cardiovascular procedures correctly, emphasizing the need for accurate documentation to ensure proper reimbursement. Throughout, the document refers to specific procedure codes (such as 33945 for heart transplants and 33992 for removal of left-heart VAD) used by medical practitioners to bill for surgeries and associated procedures. <br /><br />It underscores the relevance of education and proper registration for medical practitioners seeking continuing education units (CEUs), which are available through participating in webcasts hosted by Revenue Cycle Solutions.<br /><br />Several case examples detail specific scenarios involving heart and lung transplants, artificial hearts, and different VAD implementations, including both percutaneous and open methods. Each case exemplifies the use of the correct coding for procedures like implantation, removal, and preparation of donor organs.<br /><br />The document also describes additional scenarios where physicians might need to use specific modifiers or add-on codes for more complex operations. It stresses the complexity of heart-related surgical operations and the need for precise coding to ensure all aspects of the surgery are captured for billing purposes.<br /><br />Finally, disclaimers from MedAxiom and AMA CPT clarify that the information provided is for educational purposes, not legal or billing advice, and coding outcomes and reimbursement levels may vary depending on the specific circumstances and payer policies.

Keywords

heart transplants

ventricular assist devices

extracorporeal membrane oxygenation

medical coding

procedure codes

continuing education units

cardiovascular procedures

reimbursement

medical billing

surgical coding