36511 Apheresis wbc
Also known as: leukapheresis, WBC apheresis, leukocytapheresis
Apheresis, therapeutic, white blood cell (WBC) pheresis (cytapheresis, leukapheresis); with extracorporeal photochemotherapy.
In Plain Language
removing white blood cells to treat leukemia; blood cell removal therapy
Clinical Context
Used in acute leukemia cytoreduction, certain lymphomas, and other conditions with dangerous WBC elevation. Can be combined with photochemotherapy.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.95 |
| Total RVU | 1.95 |
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 1.95, this code ranks in the 13th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.1x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 36511?
CPT 36511 (Apheresis wbc) is a Surgery code. Apheresis, therapeutic, white blood cell (WBC) pheresis (cytapheresis, leukapheresis); with extracorporeal photochemotherapy.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 36511?
The work RVU for CPT 36511 is 1.95. This code is primarily used by Hematology/Oncology, Transfusion Medicine, Intensive Care.
When is CPT 36511 used?
Used in acute leukemia cytoreduction, certain lymphomas, and other conditions with dangerous WBC elevation. Can be combined with photochemotherapy.
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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.