Non-tunneled Catheter & Subcutaneous Port Procedures

ASDIN Coding University

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Non-Tunneled Catheters

• There are unique codes, separate from those that are used for tunneled catheters that are designated for use with non-tunneled devices

• These codes are not reserved for use with dialysis catheters

• They can, in fact, be used for any type of catheter that is to be used for any purpose

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Catheter Insertion

• 36556 is the code for non-tunneled catheter insertion

• The descriptor for this code is - insertion of non-tunneled centrally inserted central venous catheter, over 5 years of age

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Repair & Exchange

• 36575 is the code for non-tunneled catheter repair • The descriptor for this code is - repair of tunneled or

non-tunneled central venous access catheter, without subcutaneous port or pump.

• 36580 is the code for non-tunneled catheter exchange• The descriptor for this code is - replacement, complete,

of a non-tunneled centrally inserted central venous catheter, without subcutaneous port or pump through the same venous access

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Non-Tunneled Catheter Removal

• The removal of a non-tunneled catheter is not a codable event

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Additional Codes• The codes for ultrasound and fluoroscopic guidance

may be appropriately used with a non-tunneled catheter procedures

• +76937 - ultrasound guided cannulation for catheter insertion

• This code requires that an image be recorded and made part of the permanent record

• +77001 - fluoroscopic guidance used in connection with the placement of a central venous device

• This code includes any angiographic study that might be performed in conjunction with the catheter placement

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Subcutaneous Port Procedures

• There are unique codes, separate from those that are used for tunneled catheters that are designated for use with subcutaneous ports

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Port Insertion

• For the insertion of a port the code is 36561• The descriptor for this code is - insertion of tunneled centrally

inserted central venous access device, with subcutaneous port, over 5 years of age

• For the insertion of two ports the code is 36566• The descriptor for this code is - Insertion of tunneled centrally

inserted central venous access device, requiring two catheters via two separate venous access sites, with subcutaneous port(s)

• It should be noted that this code requires that the two ports be placed from separate access sites

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Port Replacement

• For the replacement of a catheter associated with a port the code is 36578

• The descriptor for this code is - replacement, catheter only, of central venous access device, with subcutaneous port or pump, through same venous access

• For the replacement of the complete port the code is 36582• The descriptor for this code is - replacement, complete, of a

centrally inserted central venous access device, with subcutaneous port

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Port Removal

• For the removal of a port the code is 36590• The descriptor for this code is - Removal of tunneled

central venous catheter, with subcutaneous port or pump

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Additional Codes• The codes for ultrasound and fluoroscopic guidance

may be appropriately used with subcutaneous port procedures

• +76937 - ultrasound guided cannulation for catheter insertion

• This code requires that an image be recorded and made part of the permanent record

• +77001 - fluoroscopic guidance used in connection with the placement of a central venous device

• This code includes any angiographic study that might be performed in conjunction with the device placement

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Important Note• This document is for informational purposes only and

should serve as a guideline for appropriate coding.• The ultimate responsibility for correct coding

/documentation remains with the provider of service. • ASDIN makes no representation, warranty, or guarantee

that this compilation of information is error-free, nor that the use of this guide will prevent differences of opinion or disputes with CMS or any other carrier.

• ASDIN will bear no responsibility or liability for the results or consequences that may grow out of the use of this guidance.

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