36561 Insert tunneled cv catheter
Also known as: portacath, implanted port, port-a-cath, port-o-cath
Insertion of tunneled central venous catheter, with subcutaneous port; 5 years of age or older.
In Plain Language
surgically implanting a central catheter with a port under the skin; implanted access port for long-term chemotherapy
Clinical Context
Used for extended intravenous access in pediatric and adult patients, particularly cancer patients requiring repeated chemotherapy doses.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 5.65 |
| Total RVU | 5.65 |
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 5.65, this code ranks in the 38th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.4x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 36561?
CPT 36561 (Insert tunneled cv catheter) is a Surgery code. Insertion of tunneled central venous catheter, with subcutaneous port; 5 years of age or older.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 36561?
The work RVU for CPT 36561 is 5.65. This code is primarily used by Surgery, Oncology, Hematology. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 36561 used?
Used for extended intravenous access in pediatric and adult patients, particularly cancer patients requiring repeated chemotherapy doses.
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.