36557 Insert tunneled cv catheter
Also known as: tunneled central line, Hickman catheter, Groshong catheter, long-term central line
Insertion of tunneled central venous catheter, without subcutaneous port or pump (eg, Hickman, Groshong); younger than 5 years of age.
In Plain Language
placing a permanent central line that goes under the skin; long-term central catheter in young children
Clinical Context
Used for long-term access in pediatric patients requiring chemotherapy, antibiotics, nutrition, or frequent blood draws.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.77 |
| Total RVU | 4.77 |
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 10-day global period — follow-up visits within 10 days of the procedure are included in the reimbursement. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 4.77, this code ranks in the 33rd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.7x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 36557?
CPT 36557 (Insert tunneled cv catheter) is a Surgery code. Insertion of tunneled central venous catheter, without subcutaneous port or pump (eg, Hickman, Groshong); younger than 5 years of age.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 36557?
The work RVU for CPT 36557 is 4.77. This code is primarily used by Pediatric Surgery, Oncology, Intensive Care. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 36557 used?
Used for long-term access in pediatric patients requiring chemotherapy, antibiotics, nutrition, or frequent blood draws.
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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.