Summary & Overview
CPT 36262: Removal of Implanted Infusion Pump and Catheter
CPT code 36262 denotes the open surgical removal of a previously implanted catheter and infusion pump. This procedure is nationally relevant because implanted infusion systems are commonly used for chronic pain management, chemotherapy, and other long-term therapies; removal procedures impact surgical workload, device lifecycle management, and post-implant care pathways. The code captures work associated with reopening a prior operative site and explanting an implanted infusion device and its catheter.
Key payers included in the national analysis are Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise overview of clinical context for explantation, expected sites of service, and the service type. The publication outlines typical billing considerations, common modifiers (list provided separately), and where CPT 36262 fits within device management and surgical service lines.
This summary prepares clinicians, billing staff, and policy analysts to understand the purpose of CPT code 36262, its clinical application, and the payer landscape affecting coverage and claims processing. Data not available in the input is noted where relevant in supporting sections.
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 36262 describes a surgical procedure in which the provider reopens a previous surgical site to remove a previously placed catheter and infusion pump. This service is a surgical removal of implanted infusion device and catheter and is typically performed when the device is no longer needed, is malfunctioning, or requires replacement.
-
Service type: Surgical device removal (open revision/explantation)
-
Typical site of service: Hospital operating room or ambulatory surgery center, depending on clinical complexity and patient condition.
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A 56-year-old patient with a history of chronic regional pain syndrome presents for removal of an implanted intrathecal pain pump and catheter due to device malfunction and infection. The patient previously underwent implantation of an infusion pump and intrathecal catheter several years prior. Preoperative assessment includes review of device interrogation reports, imaging to locate pump and catheter position, laboratory testing to assess infection, and anesthesia evaluation. In the operating room under monitored anesthesia care or general anesthesia, the surgeon reopens the prior incision at the pump pocket, dissects to the device, disconnects and withdraws the catheter from the intrathecal space as clinically indicated, removes the pump reservoir and generator, inspects the pocket for purulence, irrigates, and closes the incision. Specimens may be sent for culture if infection is suspected. Postoperative workflow includes wound care instructions, pain control, notification for device manufacturer reporting if applicable, and coordination of alternative pain management strategies or plans for reimplantation if indicated. Typical site of service is an ambulatory surgical center or hospital operating room. Service type is surgical, device explantation of previously implanted catheter and infusion pump.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
00 | No specific modifier (placeholder) | Use per payer requirements when no other modifier applies. |