36221 Place catheter thoracic aorta
Also known as: thoracic aorta catheter, descending aorta catheterization, thoracic aortic angiography
Percutaneous placement of catheter into thoracic aorta for selective angiography or intervention of descending aorta and branches.
In Plain Language
putting a tube in the aorta in the chest; thoracic aorta catheterization
Clinical Context
Used for thoracic aortic disease evaluation, aortic dissection imaging, or thoracic aortic intervention.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.82 |
| Total RVU | 3.82 |
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. This code has a 0-day global period, meaning pre- and post-operative E&M visits are billable separately on the same day. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 3.82, this code ranks in the 26th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.1x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 36221?
CPT 36221 (Place catheter thoracic aorta) is a Surgery code. Percutaneous placement of catheter into thoracic aorta for selective angiography or intervention of descending aorta and branches.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 36221?
The work RVU for CPT 36221 is 3.82. This code is primarily used by Cardiology, Radiology.
When is CPT 36221 used?
Used for thoracic aortic disease evaluation, aortic dissection imaging, or thoracic aortic intervention.
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.