37619 Ligation of inferior vena cava
Also known as: IVC ligation, Vena cava tie
Surgical ligation of the inferior vena cava, the major vein returning blood from the lower body to the heart.
In Plain Language
Blocking main vein from legs; Large vein surgery
Clinical Context
Performed to prevent pulmonary embolism in patients with contraindications to anticoagulation, recurrent thromboembolism despite anticoagulation, or septic thrombophlebitis.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 29.25 |
| Total RVU | 29.25 |
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 29.25, this code ranks in the 92nd percentile among Surgery codes — 3.7x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 37619?
CPT 37619 (Ligation of inferior vena cava) is a Surgery code. Surgical ligation of the inferior vena cava, the major vein returning blood from the lower body to the heart.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 37619?
The work RVU for CPT 37619 is 29.25. This code is primarily used by Vascular Surgery, Trauma Surgery, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 37619 used?
Performed to prevent pulmonary embolism in patients with contraindications to anticoagulation, recurrent thromboembolism despite anticoagulation, or septic thrombophlebitis.
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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.