36100 Establish access to artery
Also known as: arterial access, radial access establishment, peripheral artery puncture
Percutaneous establishment of arterial access, typically radial or ulnar artery, for diagnostic or therapeutic catheterization. Initial arterial access.
In Plain Language
starting an artery line; accessing an artery
Clinical Context
Used for diagnostic arteriography, interventional procedures, or hemodynamic monitoring.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.94 |
| Total RVU | 2.94 |
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 2.94, this code ranks in the 21st percentile among Surgery codes — 2.7x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 36100?
CPT 36100 (Establish access to artery) is a Surgery code. Percutaneous establishment of arterial access, typically radial or ulnar artery, for diagnostic or therapeutic catheterization. Initial arterial access.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 36100?
The work RVU for CPT 36100 is 2.94. This code is primarily used by Cardiology, Radiology.
When is CPT 36100 used?
Used for diagnostic arteriography, interventional procedures, or hemodynamic monitoring.
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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.