Nontunneled Catheter Subcutaneous Port Procedures ASDIN Coding University

Non-tunneled Catheter & Subcutaneous Port Procedures ASDIN Coding University 1

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 2

Catheter Insertion • 36556 is the code for non-tunneled catheter insertion • The descriptor for this code is - insertion of nontunneled centrally inserted central venous catheter, over 5 years of age 3

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 4

Non-Tunneled Catheter Removal • The removal of a non-tunneled catheter is not a codable event 5

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 6

Subcutaneous Port Procedures • There are unique codes, separate from those that are used for tunneled catheters that are designated for use with subcutaneous ports 7

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 8

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 9

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 10

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 11

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. 12