36640 Insertion catheter artery
Also known as: arterial catheter, alternative arterial access, special arterial technique
Arterial catheterization or cannulation; other than cutdown and percutaneous methods.
In Plain Language
placing an arterial catheter using alternative methods
Clinical Context
Used when standard percutaneous and cutdown techniques not applicable, such as with ultra-small vessels or special anatomic considerations.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.05 |
| Total RVU | 2.05 |
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 2.05, this code ranks in the 14th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.9x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 36640?
CPT 36640 (Insertion catheter artery) is a Surgery code. Arterial catheterization or cannulation; other than cutdown and percutaneous methods.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 36640?
The work RVU for CPT 36640 is 2.05. This code is primarily used by Critical Care, Anesthesia, Surgery.
When is CPT 36640 used?
Used when standard percutaneous and cutdown techniques not applicable, such as with ultra-small vessels or special anatomic considerations.
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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.