36835 Insertion thomas shunt
Also known as: Thomas shunt insertion, shunt placement, Thomas cannula
Insertion of Thomas shunt (separate procedure).
In Plain Language
placing a temporary shunt for emergency kidney dialysis
Clinical Context
Used for emergency vascular access in acute renal failure. Largely replaced by central venous catheters.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 7.32 |
| Total RVU | 7.32 |
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 7.32, this code ranks in the 47th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.1x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 36835?
CPT 36835 (Insertion thomas shunt) is a Surgery code. Insertion of Thomas shunt (separate procedure).
What is the wRVU value for CPT 36835?
The work RVU for CPT 36835 is 7.32. This code is primarily used by Vascular Surgery, Nephrology, Emergency Medicine. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 36835 used?
Used for emergency vascular access in acute renal failure. Largely replaced by central venous catheters.
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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.