36597 Reposition venous catheter
Also known as: catheter repositioning, central line repositioning, line adjustment
Repositioning of previously placed central venous catheter under fluoroscopic guidance.
In Plain Language
moving a central catheter to correct position using x-ray
Clinical Context
Used for malpositioned catheters causing symptoms or preventing function. Fluoroscopic guidance ensures proper placement.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.18 |
| Total RVU | 1.18 |
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 1.18, this code ranks in the 6th percentile among Surgery codes — 6.8x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 36597?
CPT 36597 (Reposition venous catheter) is a Surgery code. Repositioning of previously placed central venous catheter under fluoroscopic guidance.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 36597?
The work RVU for CPT 36597 is 1.18. This code is primarily used by Interventional Radiology, Surgery, Intensive Care.
When is CPT 36597 used?
Used for malpositioned catheters causing symptoms or preventing function. Fluoroscopic guidance ensures proper 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.