49436 Embedded inpatient catheter exit-site
Also known as: exit site repair, catheter tract repair, tunnel reconstruction
Repair or reconstruction of subcutaneous catheter exit site or tunneled catheter tract with embedded catheter revision.
In Plain Language
surgical repair of catheter opening; treatment of catheter tunnel infection
Clinical Context
Repair of infected, eroded, or problematic intraperitoneal catheter exit site with resurfacing or tract debridement.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.65 |
| Total RVU | 2.65 |
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 10-day global period — follow-up visits within 10 days of the procedure are included in the reimbursement. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 2.65, this code ranks in the 18th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.0x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 49436?
CPT 49436 (Embedded inpatient catheter exit-site) is a Surgery code. Repair or reconstruction of subcutaneous catheter exit site or tunneled catheter tract with embedded catheter revision.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 49436?
The work RVU for CPT 49436 is 2.65. This code is primarily used by Nephrology, General Surgery. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 49436 used?
Repair of infected, eroded, or problematic intraperitoneal catheter exit site with resurfacing or tract debridement.
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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.