36831 Open thrombect av fistula
Also known as: thrombectomy, fistula thrombectomy, declotting, thrombus removal
Open thrombectomy (separate procedure); arteriovenous fistula without revision of fistula.
In Plain Language
surgically removing a clot from a dialysis fistula
Clinical Context
Used for restoration of thrombosed arteriovenous fistula function without needing revision or reconstruction.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 10.73 |
| Total RVU | 10.73 |
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 10.73, this code ranks in the 61st percentile among Surgery codes — 1.3x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 36831?
CPT 36831 (Open thrombect av fistula) is a Surgery code. Open thrombectomy (separate procedure); arteriovenous fistula without revision of fistula.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 36831?
The work RVU for CPT 36831 is 10.73. This code is primarily used by Vascular Surgery, General Surgery, Nephrology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 36831 used?
Used for restoration of thrombosed arteriovenous fistula function without needing revision or reconstruction.
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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.