36595 Mech remov tunneled cv catheter
Also known as: catheter mechanical removal, declotting open, surgical declotting
Mechanical removal of occlusive material from tunneled or non-tunneled central venous catheter; open technique.
In Plain Language
surgically removing a blockage from a central catheter
Clinical Context
Used for catheter thrombosis when thrombolytic therapy fails or is contraindicated. Open technique may involve catheter manipulation or replacement.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.50 |
| Total RVU | 3.50 |
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 3.50, this code ranks in the 25th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.3x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 36595?
CPT 36595 (Mech remov tunneled cv catheter) is a Surgery code. Mechanical removal of occlusive material from tunneled or non-tunneled central venous catheter; open technique.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 36595?
The work RVU for CPT 36595 is 3.50. This code is primarily used by Surgery, Interventional Radiology, Intensive Care.
When is CPT 36595 used?
Used for catheter thrombosis when thrombolytic therapy fails or is contraindicated. Open technique may involve catheter manipulation or replacement.
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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.