How To Use CPT Code 36582

CPT 36582 describes the complete replacement of a tunneled centrally inserted central venous access device (CVA) with a subcutaneous port through the same venous access. 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 36582?

CPT 36582 can be used to describe the complete replacement of a tunneled CVA catheter with a subcutaneous port through the same venous access. This code is used when the old catheter is blocked, damaged, or malfunctioning, and needs to be replaced with a new one.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 36582 is: ‘Replacement, complete, of a tunneled centrally inserted central venous access device, with subcutaneous port, through same venous access.’

3. Procedure

1. After administering anesthesia, the physician removes the old tunneled catheter and replaces it with a new one.
2. The physician also removes the old port and replaces it with a new one through the same venous access route.
3. The catheter is tied up and the incision site is closed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

This procedure is performed when the existing tunneled CVA catheter is no longer functioning properly and needs to be completely replaced. The replacement is done through the same venous access site. The patient must have a central venous catheter (CVC) and a subcutaneous port in place. The procedure is typically performed by a physician.

5. When to use CPT code 36582

CPT code 36582 should be used when there is a need for a complete replacement of a tunneled CVA catheter with a subcutaneous port through the same venous access. It should not be used for partial replacements or for the initial placement of a CVA catheter.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 36582, the physician must document the following information:

• Reason for the complete replacement of the tunneled CVA catheter
• Details of the procedure, including the removal of the old catheter and port, and the insertion of the new catheter and port
• Date and time of the procedure
• Incision site and closure details
• Signature of the performing physician

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 36582, ensure that the procedure involves the complete replacement of a tunneled CVA catheter with a subcutaneous port through the same venous access. It should not be reported with other codes for partial replacements or initial placements of CVA catheters. Follow the appropriate coding guidelines and modifiers for accurate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT 36582 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 patient with a malfunctioning tunneled CVA catheter undergoes a complete replacement procedure with a subcutaneous port through the same venous access.
2. A physician replaces a blocked tunneled CVA catheter and subcutaneous port in a patient with a history of central venous access.
3. A complete replacement of a damaged tunneled CVA catheter and subcutaneous port is performed on a patient with a central venous catheter.
4. A physician replaces a malfunctioning tunneled CVA catheter and subcutaneous port through the same venous access in a patient requiring long-term intravenous therapy.
5. A patient with a dysfunctional tunneled CVA catheter undergoes a complete replacement procedure with a subcutaneous port to ensure proper administration of intravenous medication.
6. A physician performs a complete replacement of a tunneled CVA catheter and subcutaneous port in a patient with a history of central venous access for nutritional support.
7. A patient with a blocked tunneled CVA catheter receives a complete replacement procedure with a subcutaneous port to restore proper venous access.
8. A physician replaces a malfunctioning tunneled CVA catheter and subcutaneous port through the same venous access in a patient requiring frequent blood draws.
9. A complete replacement of a damaged tunneled CVA catheter and subcutaneous port is performed on a patient with a central venous catheter for chemotherapy administration.
10. A patient with a dysfunctional tunneled CVA catheter undergoes a complete replacement procedure with a subcutaneous port to ensure reliable intravenous access for antibiotic therapy.