36825 Artery-vein autograft
Also known as: autogenous fistula, vein transposition fistula, AV fistula creation
Creation of arteriovenous fistula by other than direct arteriovenous anastomosis (separate incision); autogenous (including vein transposition).
In Plain Language
creating a dialysis access using the patient's own vein
Clinical Context
Used for arteriovenous fistula creation with intervening tissue or using transposed vein, often for upper arm fistulas.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 13.82 |
| Total RVU | 13.82 |
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 13.82, this code ranks in the 70th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.7x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 36825?
CPT 36825 (Artery-vein autograft) is a Surgery code. Creation of arteriovenous fistula by other than direct arteriovenous anastomosis (separate incision); autogenous (including vein transposition).
What is the wRVU value for CPT 36825?
The work RVU for CPT 36825 is 13.82. This code is primarily used by Vascular Surgery, Nephrology, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 36825 used?
Used for arteriovenous fistula creation with intervening tissue or using transposed vein, often for upper arm fistulas.
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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.