36556 Insert non-tunnel cv catheter
Also known as: non-tunneled central line, temporary central catheter, percutaneous central line, central venous catheter, central line, central line placement, IJ line, subclavian line, triple lumen
Insertion of non-tunneled central venous catheter; 5 years of age or older.
In Plain Language
placing a temporary central catheter; short-term central line for children and adults
Clinical Context
Used for short-term acute access in pediatric and adult patients. Common in emergency departments and intensive care settings.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.71 |
| Total RVU | 1.71 |
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 1.71, this code ranks in the 11th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.7x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 36556?
CPT 36556 (Insert non-tunnel cv catheter) is a Surgery code. Insertion of non-tunneled central venous catheter; 5 years of age or older.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 36556?
The work RVU for CPT 36556 is 1.71. This code is primarily used by Surgery, Intensive Care, Emergency Medicine.
When is CPT 36556 used?
Used for short-term acute access in pediatric and adult patients. Common in emergency departments and intensive care settings.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against MGMA data — all in one app.
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.