62225 Replace/irrigate catheter
Also known as: subarachnoid catheter replacement, spinal drain replacement, drain irrigation
Replacement or irrigation of ventricular drain or catheter via lumbar, cisternal, or cervical access. Includes removal and new placement.
In Plain Language
spinal drain replacement; brain fluid catheter replacement
Clinical Context
Used for replacement of malfunctioning, infected, or occluded subarachnoid drains or catheters.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 6.04 |
| Total RVU | 6.04 |
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 6.04, this code ranks in the 40th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.3x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 62225?
CPT 62225 (Replace/irrigate catheter) is a Surgery code. Replacement or irrigation of ventricular drain or catheter via lumbar, cisternal, or cervical access. Includes removal and new placement.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 62225?
The work RVU for CPT 62225 is 6.04. This code is primarily used by Neurosurgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 62225 used?
Used for replacement of malfunctioning, infected, or occluded subarachnoid drains or catheters.
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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.