36820 Av fusion/forearm vein
Also known as: radiocephalic fistula, wrist fistula, Brescia-Cimino fistula, RC fistula, AV fistula forearm
Arteriovenous fistula, direct, forearm; radiocephalic or ulnocephalic (Brescia-Cimino, Gracz and other aneurysm [sic] variants).
In Plain Language
creating a dialysis access at the wrist
Clinical Context
Most common and preferred arteriovenous fistula. Created by anastomosis of radial artery to cephalic vein at wrist.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 12.74 |
| Total RVU | 12.74 |
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 12.74, this code ranks in the 67th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.6x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 36820?
CPT 36820 (Av fusion/forearm vein) is a Surgery code. Arteriovenous fistula, direct, forearm; radiocephalic or ulnocephalic (Brescia-Cimino, Gracz and other aneurysm [sic] variants).
What is the wRVU value for CPT 36820?
The work RVU for CPT 36820 is 12.74. This code is primarily used by Vascular Surgery, Nephrology, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 36820 used?
Most common and preferred arteriovenous fistula. Created by anastomosis of radial artery to cephalic vein at wrist.
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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.