How To Use CPT Code 36596

CPT 36596 describes the mechanical removal of intraluminal (intracatheter) obstructive material from a central venous device through the device lumen. This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 36596?

CPT 36596 can be used to describe the procedure of mechanically removing obstructive material from a central venous device through the device lumen. This code is used when a provider inserts a wire, balloon catheter, or other instruments into the lumen of the central venous device to push or pull out the obstructive material.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 36596 is: ‘Mechanical removal of intraluminal (intracatheter) obstructive material from a central venous device through the device lumen.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider inserts a wire, balloon catheter, or other instruments through the outer opening and into the lumen of the central venous device.
2. The provider pushes or pulls out the obstructive material using the inserted instruments.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 36596 is used when there is a need to mechanically remove obstructive material from a central venous device. This procedure is typically performed when there is a blockage or obstruction within the device that is affecting the normal flow of fluids. It is important to note that CPT 36596 should not be reported in conjunction with CPT 36593. Additionally, for venous catheterization, other codes such as 36010-36012 should be used.

5. When to use CPT code 36596

CPT code 36596 should be used when a provider performs the mechanical removal of intraluminal obstructive material from a central venous device through the device lumen. It is important to note that this code should not be reported if CPT codes 36593 have already been performed in the previous seven days.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 36596, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for mechanical removal of obstructive material
• Specific instruments used for the procedure
• Date and time of the procedure
• Details of the procedure, including the steps taken to remove the obstructive material
• Any complications or additional interventions performed
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 36596, ensure that the procedure involves the mechanical removal of intraluminal obstructive material from a central venous device through the device lumen. It is important to note that CPT 36596 should not be reported in conjunction with CPT 36593. If the provider performed both the fibrin sheath removal and the radiological supervision and interpretation, separate codes should be reported. For example, CPT 36596 and CPT 75901 should be reported together.

8. Historical information

CPT 36596 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 provider inserts a balloon catheter into a central venous access device to remove an obstructive material causing a blockage.
2. A wire is inserted into a central venous device to mechanically remove an obstructive material that is affecting the normal flow of fluids.
3. A provider uses other instruments to push out an obstructive material from a central venous device, restoring the normal flow within the catheter lumen.
4. A balloon catheter is inserted into a peripherally inserted central venous catheter (PICC) to remove an obstructive material, ensuring proper functioning of the catheter.
5. A provider utilizes a wire to pull out an obstructive material from a central venous device, improving the flow of fluids.
6. An obstructive material within a central venous device is mechanically removed using a balloon catheter, allowing for normal flow within the catheter lumen.
7. A provider inserts other instruments into a central venous device to push out an obstructive material, resolving the blockage.
8. A wire is used to mechanically remove an obstructive material from a central venous device, restoring proper functioning of the catheter.
9. A balloon catheter is inserted into a central venous access device to remove an obstructive material, ensuring the normal flow of fluids.
10. A provider utilizes other instruments to pull out an obstructive material from a central venous device, improving the flow within the catheter lumen.