36818 Av fuse uppr arm cephalic
Also known as: cephalic AVF, cephalic transposition, upper arm fistula, transposition fistula, AV fistula upper arm
Arteriovenous fistula, direct, upper arm; cephalic vein transposition.
In Plain Language
creating a dialysis access in the upper arm using the cephalic vein
Clinical Context
Used for creating permanent dialysis access. Cephalic vein transposition allows adequate flow and ease of cannulation.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 12.08 |
| Total RVU | 12.08 |
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 90-day global period, which includes the day of the procedure, 1 day preoperative, and 90 days of postoperative care. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 12.08, this code ranks in the 65th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.5x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 36818?
CPT 36818 (Av fuse uppr arm cephalic) is a Surgery code. Arteriovenous fistula, direct, upper arm; cephalic vein transposition.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 36818?
The work RVU for CPT 36818 is 12.08. This code is primarily used by Vascular Surgery, Nephrology, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 36818 used?
Used for creating permanent dialysis access. Cephalic vein transposition allows adequate flow and ease of cannulation.
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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.