36838 Distal revas ligation hemo
Also known as: DRIL procedure, steal syndrome repair, distal revascularization
Distal revascularization and interval ligation (DRIL) for steal syndrome.
In Plain Language
surgery to fix poor circulation in hand caused by dialysis fistula
Clinical Context
Used for treatment of arteriovenous steal syndrome causing hand ischemia. Complex vascular procedure with high morbidity.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 21.15 |
| Total RVU | 21.15 |
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 21.15, this code ranks in the 84th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.6x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 36838?
CPT 36838 (Distal revas ligation hemo) is a Surgery code. Distal revascularization and interval ligation (DRIL) for steal syndrome.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 36838?
The work RVU for CPT 36838 is 21.15. This code is primarily used by Vascular Surgery, General Surgery, Hand Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 36838 used?
Used for treatment of arteriovenous steal syndrome causing hand ischemia. Complex vascular procedure with high morbidity.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against MGMA data — all in one app.
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.