37182 Insert hepatic shunt (tips)
Also known as: TIPS, TIPS placement, intrahepatic shunt
Percutaneous or transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt insertion, creating a communication between the hepatic vein and portal vein to reduce portal pressure.
In Plain Language
liver shunt procedure; pressure relief bypass in the liver
Clinical Context
Indicated for refractory variceal bleeding, refractory ascites, and hepatic hydrothorax in patients with cirrhosis. Reduces portal pressure acutely.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 16.55 |
| Total RVU | 16.55 |
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 16.55, this code ranks in the 76th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.1x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 37182?
CPT 37182 (Insert hepatic shunt (tips)) is a Surgery code. Percutaneous or transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt insertion, creating a communication between the hepatic vein and portal vein to reduce portal pressure.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 37182?
The work RVU for CPT 37182 is 16.55. This code is primarily used by interventional radiology, hepatology.
When is CPT 37182 used?
Indicated for refractory variceal bleeding, refractory ascites, and hepatic hydrothorax in patients with cirrhosis. Reduces portal pressure acutely.
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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.