36481 Insertion of catheter vein
Also known as: portal vein catheterization, transhepatic catheterization, PVT
Percutaneous portal vein catheterization via transcollateral venipuncture.
In Plain Language
placing a tube into the liver vein; accessing blood vessel inside the liver
Clinical Context
Used for accessing portal circulation for pressure measurement, intervention, or transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) procedures.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 6.56 |
| Total RVU | 6.56 |
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 6.56, this code ranks in the 43rd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.2x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 36481?
CPT 36481 (Insertion of catheter vein) is a Surgery code. Percutaneous portal vein catheterization via transcollateral venipuncture.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 36481?
The work RVU for CPT 36481 is 6.56. This code is primarily used by Interventional Radiology, Hepatology, Transplant Surgery.
When is CPT 36481 used?
Used for accessing portal circulation for pressure measurement, intervention, or transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) procedures.
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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.