2025 CPT code 36560

Insertion of a tunneled, centrally inserted central venous access device with a subcutaneous port in patients younger than 5 years old.

Follow CPT guidelines for central venous access device insertion, specifically for tunneled devices with subcutaneous ports in pediatric patients. Bill separately for imaging guidance (if applicable).

Modifiers may be applicable depending on the circumstances of the procedure, such as modifier 50 (bilateral procedure) if applicable, or modifiers for anesthesia or assistance.

The placement of a tunneled central venous access device with a port is medically necessary when long-term intravenous access is required for the administration of medications, fluids, or nutrition, or when frequent blood sampling is necessary for monitoring purposes.This is particularly true in pediatric patients for whom peripheral intravenous access is difficult to maintain.

The physician is responsible for administering anesthesia (if applicable), creating a subcutaneous tunnel, inserting the central venous catheter into the vein, creating pockets for the port, inserting and suturing the port, and using fluoroscopic guidance (if used).

IMPORTANT For peripherally inserted central venous access devices with subcutaneous ports in patients younger than 5 years old, use 36570.

In simple words: This code covers placing a long, thin tube (catheter) under the skin to a vein near the heart in children under 5. This tube is connected to a small chamber (port) under the skin for easy access to give medicine or draw blood.The doctor may use X-ray imaging during the procedure.

This CPT code, 36560, describes the insertion of a tunneled, centrally inserted central venous access device that includes a subcutaneous port.The procedure is specifically for patients under 5 years of age. The catheter's tip must terminate in the subclavian, brachiocephalic (innominate), or iliac veins; superior or inferior vena cava; or right atrium.The procedure involves creating a subcutaneous tunnel, inserting the catheter, and placing a subcutaneous port.Fluoroscopic guidance may be used and billed separately.

Example 1: A 2-year-old child requires long-term chemotherapy.A tunneled central venous catheter with a port is inserted to administer the medication., A 4-year-old child with severe dehydration needs intravenous fluids.A tunneled central venous catheter with a port is placed for convenient fluid administration., A 3-year-old child with a metabolic disorder requires frequent blood draws for monitoring.A tunneled central venous catheter with a port is inserted to facilitate this process.

* Detailed operative report describing the procedure, including the type of catheter used, the location of insertion, the placement of the port, and any complications.* Imaging studies (if used), demonstrating accurate catheter placement.* Patient's age verification.* Documentation of medical necessity for the placement of the central venous access device.

** Ensure accurate documentation of the type of catheter used and its placement.Different catheters may be used depending on the specific situation and patient age.Always refer to the most current CPT guidelines for accurate coding.

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