49421 Ins tun inpatient catheter for dial opn
Also known as: peritoneal dialysis catheter, open IP catheter, CAPD catheter insertion
Insertion of tunneled intraperitoneal catheter via open approach for continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis.
In Plain Language
surgical placement of dialysis tube; open insertion of peritoneal catheter
Clinical Context
Open surgical placement of tunneled intraperitoneal catheter for continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). Used in chronic kidney disease patients.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.10 |
| Total RVU | 4.10 |
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 4.10, this code ranks in the 28th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.0x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 49421?
CPT 49421 (Ins tun inpatient catheter for dial opn) is a Surgery code. Insertion of tunneled intraperitoneal catheter via open approach for continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 49421?
The work RVU for CPT 49421 is 4.10. This code is primarily used by Nephrology, General Surgery, Urology.
When is CPT 49421 used?
Open surgical placement of tunneled intraperitoneal catheter for continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). Used in chronic kidney disease patients.
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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.