36010 Place catheter in vein
Also known as: central line placement, peripheral inserted central catheter, PICC line
Percutaneous placement of central venous catheter for infusion therapy, hemodynamic monitoring, or nutrition. Central vein access.
In Plain Language
putting a tube in a major vein for medicine delivery; central IV line
Clinical Context
Indicated for prolonged IV therapy, total parenteral nutrition, chemotherapy, or hemodynamic monitoring.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.13 |
| Total RVU | 2.13 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 2.13, this code ranks in the 15th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.8x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 36010?
CPT 36010 (Place catheter in vein) is a Surgery code. Percutaneous placement of central venous catheter for infusion therapy, hemodynamic monitoring, or nutrition. Central vein access.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 36010?
The work RVU for CPT 36010 is 2.13. This code is primarily used by Surgery, Critical Care.
When is CPT 36010 used?
Indicated for prolonged IV therapy, total parenteral nutrition, chemotherapy, or hemodynamic monitoring.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against MGMA data — all in one app.
CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.