Outpatient Facility Coding Alert
Consider Peripheral, Major Veins When Choosing Between 36561, 36571
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Question: What is the CPT® code for a left cephalic port-a-catheter placement for a 50-year-old patient? I cannot decide between 36561 and 36571. Florida Subscriber Answer: The difference between codes 36561 (Insertion of tunneled centrally inserted central venous access device, with subcutaneous port; age 5 years or older) and 36571 (Insertion of peripherally inserted central venous access device, with subcutaneous port; age 5 years or older) involves route of insertion. A peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) is inserted into a peripheral vein in the arm. Some peripheral veins include the cephalic vein, basilic vein, or brachial vein. On the other hand, a central venous catheter is inserted into a major vein. Some examples of major veins include the subclavian vein, the internal jugular vein or the femoral vein. You will report a cephalic port-a-catheter placement using code 36571.
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