2025 CPT code 36590

Removal of a tunneled central venous access device with a subcutaneous port or pump, placed via a central or peripheral insertion.

Refer to CPT guidelines for central venous access procedures for specific coding instructions.

Modifiers may be applicable, such as modifier 78 (Return to the Operating Room) if the removal is unplanned.

Medical necessity for removal should be documented. This may include completion of therapy, device malfunction, infection, or patient request.

The physician prepares the patient, provides anesthesia, makes an incision to access the port or pump, disconnects it from the catheter, uses a guidewire to remove the catheter, closes the incision, and dresses the wound.

IMPORTANT Do not report 36589 or 36590 for removal of non-tunneled central venous catheters.For removal of a tunneled venous catheter without a port or pump, use 36589.

In simple words: The doctor removes a tube (tunneled central venous access device) and a small device under your skin (subcutaneous port or pump) used to give you medicine or fluids. This device was put in through a vein in your chest, neck, or arm.

This code describes the removal of a tunneled central venous access device, including the subcutaneous port or pump, that was inserted through either a central or peripheral vein. The procedure involves making an incision to access and remove the implanted port or pump, disconnecting the catheter, using a guidewire to remove the catheter, closing the incision, and bandaging the wound.

Example 1: A patient has a tunneled central venous catheter with a port that was placed for long-term chemotherapy. Now that the treatment is complete, the physician removes the device., A patient with a tunneled central venous catheter and pump for long-term pain management requires device removal due to infection. The physician removes the infected device., A patient has a peripherally inserted tunneled central venous catheter with a subcutaneous port, placed for long-term antibiotic administration.With the infection resolved, the physician removes the device.

Documentation should include the type of device removed (port or pump), location of insertion (central or peripheral), method of removal, and any complications encountered. Operative notes and related medical history are essential.

  • Revenue Code: P6C - MINOR PROCEDURES - OTHER (MEDICARE FEE SCHEDULE)
  • Specialties:Interventional Radiology, Vascular Surgery, General Surgery
  • Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center, Physician's Office
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