36901 Intro catheter dialysis circuit
Also known as: dialysis access, dialysis needle placement, access cannulation
Introduction of needle and/or catheter, dialysis circuit.
In Plain Language
placing needles into a dialysis fistula or graft
Clinical Context
Used for each session of hemodialysis. Requires two needle placements (arterial and venous) for blood flow through dialyzer.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.28 |
| Total RVU | 3.28 |
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 0-day global period, meaning pre- and post-operative E&M visits are billable separately on the same day. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 3.28, this code ranks in the 23rd percentile among Surgery codes — 2.4x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 36901?
CPT 36901 (Intro catheter dialysis circuit) is a Surgery code. Introduction of needle and/or catheter, dialysis circuit.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 36901?
The work RVU for CPT 36901 is 3.28. This code is primarily used by Nephrology, Dialysis Nursing, Vascular Surgery.
When is CPT 36901 used?
Used for each session of hemodialysis. Requires two needle placements (arterial and venous) for blood flow through dialyzer.
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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.