Subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (S-ICDs) are having a pretty good year. In a recent study researchers gave the devices a thumbs up as a viable alternative to the traditional transvenous ICD systems. With S-ICD, electrodes are implanted under the skin on the side of the chest.
 
And the addition of 10 Category III codes (PDF) in the AMA’s 2014 CPT coding manual means electrophysiologists can start reporting the use of the S-ICDs next year. The device system, which has been in use in Europe and New Zealand since 2009, was approved by the FDA in late 2012.
 
While S-ICDs still have limitations, the study showed that the systems met primary trial endpoints – a 180-day complication-free rate of 99% and induced acute ventricular fibrillation conversion rate of 100% in evaluable patients.
 
The added Category III CPT codes are similar to those offered for ICDs in Category I – with specific codes for an entire device insertion, pulse generator replacements or electrode replacements.
 
For more information on 2014 cardio-related CPT changes, turn to Cardiology Coder’s Pink Sheet.