36596 Mech remov tunneled cv catheter
Also known as: percutaneous declotting, mechanical declotting, catheter manipulation
Mechanical removal of occlusive material from tunneled or non-tunneled central venous catheter; percutaneous technique.
In Plain Language
removing a blockage from a central catheter without surgery
Clinical Context
Used for catheter thrombosis management via percutaneous approach, avoiding repeat central line placement.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.73 |
| Total RVU | 0.73 |
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 0.73, this code ranks in the 2nd percentile among Surgery codes — 11.0x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 36596?
CPT 36596 (Mech remov tunneled cv catheter) is a Surgery code. Mechanical removal of occlusive material from tunneled or non-tunneled central venous catheter; percutaneous technique.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 36596?
The work RVU for CPT 36596 is 0.73. This code is primarily used by Interventional Radiology, Surgery, Intensive Care.
When is CPT 36596 used?
Used for catheter thrombosis management via percutaneous approach, avoiding repeat central line placement.
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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.