36510 Insertion of catheter vein
Also known as: central line insertion, CVC placement, percutaneous central line, central venous catheter
Insertion of central venous catheter, percutaneous method; 5 years of age or older.
In Plain Language
placing a central catheter in older children and adults; inserting a large vein tube
Clinical Context
Used for intravenous access, medication administration, nutrition support, hemodynamic monitoring, or dialysis in pediatric and adult patients.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.06 |
| Total RVU | 1.06 |
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 1.06, this code ranks in the 5th percentile among Surgery codes — 7.5x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 36510?
CPT 36510 (Insertion of catheter vein) is a Surgery code. Insertion of central venous catheter, percutaneous method; 5 years of age or older.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 36510?
The work RVU for CPT 36510 is 1.06. This code is primarily used by Surgery, Intensive Care, Anesthesia.
When is CPT 36510 used?
Used for intravenous access, medication administration, nutrition support, hemodynamic monitoring, or dialysis in pediatric and adult patients.
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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.