36589 Removal tunneled cv catheter
Also known as: catheter exchange, line exchange, CVC exchange
Removal of tunneled or non-tunneled central venous catheter, with insertion of replacement tunneled central venous catheter, at same venous access site.
In Plain Language
removing and replacing a central catheter at the same location
Clinical Context
Used when catheter removal and replacement needed at same site. Reduces morbidity compared to separate removal and insertion.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.22 |
| Total RVU | 2.22 |
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 2.22, this code ranks in the 15th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.6x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 36589?
CPT 36589 (Removal tunneled cv catheter) is a Surgery code. Removal of tunneled or non-tunneled central venous catheter, with insertion of replacement tunneled central venous catheter, at same venous access site.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 36589?
The work RVU for CPT 36589 is 2.22. This code is primarily used by Surgery, Interventional Radiology, Intensive Care. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 36589 used?
Used when catheter removal and replacement needed at same site. Reduces morbidity compared to separate removal and insertion.
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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.