36450 Bld exchange truj newborn
Also known as: exchange transfusion, double volume exchange, newborn transfusion
Blood exchange transfusion, newborn; total volume transfusion (one or more repeated exchanges).
In Plain Language
replacing newborn's blood to treat jaundice or blood type incompatibility; blood exchange in newborns
Clinical Context
Used in neonates with hemolytic disease, severe hyperbilirubinemia, or intrauterine transfusion complications. Involves removing infant blood and replacing with donor blood.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.41 |
| Total RVU | 3.41 |
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 3.41, 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 36450?
CPT 36450 (Bld exchange truj newborn) is a Surgery code. Blood exchange transfusion, newborn; total volume transfusion (one or more repeated exchanges).
What is the wRVU value for CPT 36450?
The work RVU for CPT 36450 is 3.41. This code is primarily used by Neonatal Medicine, Pediatric Surgery, Transfusion Medicine.
When is CPT 36450 used?
Used in neonates with hemolytic disease, severe hyperbilirubinemia, or intrauterine transfusion complications. Involves removing infant blood and replacing with donor blood.
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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.