47536 Exchange biliary drainage catheter
Also known as: Catheter exchange, tube exchange
Exchange of an existing percutaneous biliary drainage catheter for a new catheter, maintaining access while replacing the tube due to clogging, migration, or routine maintenance.
In Plain Language
Replacing the drainage tube while keeping the same opening
Clinical Context
Routine procedure for catheter maintenance in patients requiring long-term drainage. Prevents loss of access and maintains biliary decompression.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.54 |
| Total RVU | 2.54 |
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 2.54, this code ranks in the 18th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.1x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 47536?
CPT 47536 (Exchange biliary drainage catheter) is a Surgery code. Exchange of an existing percutaneous biliary drainage catheter for a new catheter, maintaining access while replacing the tube due to clogging, migration, or routine maintenance.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 47536?
The work RVU for CPT 47536 is 2.54. This code is primarily used by Interventional Radiology, Hepatobiliary Surgery.
When is CPT 47536 used?
Routine procedure for catheter maintenance in patients requiring long-term drainage. Prevents loss of access and maintains biliary decompression.
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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.