36011 Place catheter in vein
Also known as: IJ central line, internal jugular catheter, jugular venous catheter
Percutaneous placement of central venous catheter via internal jugular vein approach. Central venous access for infusion or monitoring.
In Plain Language
putting a tube in the neck vein for medicine delivery; internal jugular line
Clinical Context
Used for critical care, total parenteral nutrition, or hemodynamic monitoring. Common ICU access.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.06 |
| Total RVU | 3.06 |
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 3.06, this code ranks in the 22nd percentile among Surgery codes — 2.6x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 36011?
CPT 36011 (Place catheter in vein) is a Surgery code. Percutaneous placement of central venous catheter via internal jugular vein approach. Central venous access for infusion or monitoring.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 36011?
The work RVU for CPT 36011 is 3.06. This code is primarily used by Critical Care, Surgery.
When is CPT 36011 used?
Used for critical care, total parenteral nutrition, or hemodynamic monitoring. Common ICU access.
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.