How To Use CPT Code 36571

CPT 36571 describes the insertion of a peripherally inserted central venous access device (PICC) with a subcutaneous port in patients who are five years of age or older. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 36571?

CPT 36571 can be used to describe the insertion of a peripherally inserted central venous access device (PICC) with a subcutaneous port in patients who are five years of age or older. This code is used when a healthcare provider inserts a central venous catheter peripherally through a vein in the arm and places a subcutaneous port just under the skin. The PICC line is used for long-term intravenous therapy in patients who require it.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 36571 is: ‘Insertion of peripherally inserted central venous access device, with subcutaneous port; age 5 years or older.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider prepares the patient and administers anesthesia.
2. A small incision is made over a vein in the arm or forearm.
3. A guide wire is inserted into the vein under imaging guidance.
4. The central venous catheter is advanced over the guide wire until it reaches the superior vena cava.
5. An incision is made in the chest or arm to create a separate pocket for the subcutaneous port.
6. The port is inserted into the pocket and connected to the catheter.
7. The incision sites are closed with sutures.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 36571 is used when a healthcare provider inserts a peripherally inserted central venous access device (PICC) with a subcutaneous port in patients who are five years of age or older. This procedure is typically performed on patients who require long-term intravenous therapy.

5. When to use CPT code 36571

CPT code 36571 should be used when a healthcare provider inserts a peripherally inserted central venous access device (PICC) with a subcutaneous port in patients who are five years of age or older. This code should not be used for patients younger than five years of age or for procedures that do not involve the insertion of a subcutaneous port.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 36571, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s age
• Procedure performed (insertion of peripherally inserted central venous access device with subcutaneous port)
• Date of the procedure
• Specific details of the procedure, including the incision sites and the placement of the catheter and subcutaneous port
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 36571, ensure that the procedure involves the insertion of a peripherally inserted central venous access device (PICC) with a subcutaneous port in patients who are five years of age or older. This code should not be reported for patients younger than five years of age or for procedures that do not involve the insertion of a subcutaneous port. Review the CPT notes for additional guidance on coding if the procedure includes the insertion of a subcutaneous port.

8. Historical information

CPT 36571 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2004. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider inserts a peripherally inserted central venous access device (PICC) with a subcutaneous port in a 60-year-old patient who requires long-term intravenous therapy.
2. A patient with cancer undergoes the insertion of a peripherally inserted central venous access device (PICC) with a subcutaneous port for chemotherapy administration.
3. A 70-year-old patient with kidney failure receives a peripherally inserted central venous access device (PICC) with a subcutaneous port for hemodialysis.
4. A healthcare provider performs the insertion of a peripherally inserted central venous access device (PICC) with a subcutaneous port in a 75-year-old patient who requires long-term antibiotic therapy.
5. A 55-year-old patient with a chronic illness undergoes the insertion of a peripherally inserted central venous access device (PICC) with a subcutaneous port for intravenous nutrition.
6. A healthcare provider inserts a peripherally inserted central venous access device (PICC) with a subcutaneous port in a 65-year-old patient who requires long-term pain management medication.
7. A patient with heart failure receives the insertion of a peripherally inserted central venous access device (PICC) with a subcutaneous port for intravenous diuretic therapy.
8. A 50-year-old patient with a severe infection undergoes the insertion of a peripherally inserted central venous access device (PICC) with a subcutaneous port for intravenous antibiotic treatment.