36012 Place catheter in vein
Also known as: subclavian central line, subclavian catheter, SUB line
Percutaneous placement of central venous catheter via subclavian vein approach. Central venous access for long-term therapy.
In Plain Language
putting a tube in the shoulder vein for medicine delivery; subclavian line
Clinical Context
Used for extended IV therapy, total parenteral nutrition, or hemodialysis access.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.42 |
| Total RVU | 3.42 |
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 3.42, this code ranks in the 24th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.3x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 36012?
CPT 36012 (Place catheter in vein) is a Surgery code. Percutaneous placement of central venous catheter via subclavian vein approach. Central venous access for long-term therapy.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 36012?
The work RVU for CPT 36012 is 3.42. This code is primarily used by Critical Care, Surgery.
When is CPT 36012 used?
Used for extended IV therapy, total parenteral nutrition, or hemodialysis access.
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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.