How To Use CPT Code 36597

CPT 36597 describes the repositioning of a previously placed central venous catheter under fluoroscopic guidance. 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 36597?

CPT 36597 can be used to describe the repositioning of a central venous catheter that has become dislodged or infected. This procedure is performed under fluoroscopic guidance to ensure accurate placement of the catheter tip.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 36597 is: ‘Repositioning of previously placed central venous catheter under fluoroscopic guidance.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider administers local anesthesia to the patient.
2. A needle is inserted into the patient’s skin.
3. Under fluoroscopic guidance, the provider repositions the catheter tip into the appropriate area.
4. The catheter is secured on top of the skin and taped down to prevent accidental movement or removal.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 36597 is performed when a previously placed central venous catheter needs to be repositioned due to dislodgement or infection. The procedure is done under fluoroscopic guidance to ensure accurate placement of the catheter tip. This code should only be used for repositioning and not for initial placement of a central venous catheter.

5. When to use CPT code 36597

CPT code 36597 should be used when a central venous catheter that has already been placed needs to be repositioned under fluoroscopic guidance. It should not be used for the initial placement of a central venous catheter.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 36597, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for repositioning the central venous catheter
• Use of fluoroscopic guidance during the procedure
• Date and time of the procedure
• Details of the repositioning process
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 36597, ensure that the procedure involves the repositioning of a previously placed central venous catheter under fluoroscopic guidance. It should not be reported with other codes for initial placement or removal of a central venous catheter. Additionally, be aware of any specific guidelines or requirements from the payer regarding documentation or medical necessity.

8. Historical information

CPT 36597 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’s central venous catheter becomes dislodged, and the provider performs a repositioning procedure under fluoroscopic guidance.
2. After an infection is detected in a central venous catheter, the provider repositions the catheter tip using fluoroscopic guidance.
3. A patient’s central venous catheter needs to be repositioned due to poor blood flow, and the provider performs the procedure under fluoroscopic guidance.
4. During a routine check-up, the provider discovers that a central venous catheter has shifted, and they reposition it using fluoroscopic guidance.
5. Following a trauma, the central venous catheter becomes displaced, and the provider performs a repositioning procedure under fluoroscopic guidance.
6. A patient’s central venous catheter becomes kinked, and the provider repositions it using fluoroscopic guidance.
7. Due to a blockage in the central venous catheter, the provider repositions the catheter tip under fluoroscopic guidance.
8. After a central venous catheter becomes tangled, the provider performs a repositioning procedure using fluoroscopic guidance.
9. A patient’s central venous catheter becomes infected, and the provider repositions it under fluoroscopic guidance to prevent further complications.
10. During a routine maintenance procedure, the provider discovers that a central venous catheter has migrated, and they reposition it using fluoroscopic guidance.