36253 Ins catheter renal artery second+ unilateral
Also known as: additional renal catheter, renal subcatheterization, second renal catheterization
Percutaneous placement of catheter into renal artery as second or subsequent catheterization (unilateral single renal system) for additional imaging.
In Plain Language
putting an additional tube in kidney artery; second renal catheterization
Clinical Context
Used for selective renal segmental angiography or additional renal vessel imaging.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 7.12 |
| Total RVU | 7.12 |
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 7.12, this code ranks in the 46th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.1x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 36253?
CPT 36253 (Ins catheter renal artery second+ unilateral) is a Surgery code. Percutaneous placement of catheter into renal artery as second or subsequent catheterization (unilateral single renal system) for additional imaging.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 36253?
The work RVU for CPT 36253 is 7.12. This code is primarily used by Radiology, Interventional Radiology.
When is CPT 36253 used?
Used for selective renal segmental angiography or additional renal vessel imaging.
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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.