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CPT 36595: Removal of Fibrin or Obstruction from Central Venous Device Tip
CPT code 36595 denotes a targeted, minimally invasive intervention to remove obstructive material (for example, fibrin) from the tip of a central venous access device by introducing a wire or instrument through a separate venous access. Nationally, this code is important because it addresses catheter dysfunction that can interrupt chemotherapy, parenteral nutrition, hemodialysis and other therapies dependent on reliable central venous access.
Key payers in the coverage landscape include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare and Medicare. Readers will find a clinical and billing primer describing the procedure context, typical sites of service, and common scenarios prompting use of the code. The publication outlines common modifiers seen with procedural billing and identifies areas where documentation and coding specificity matter to support medical necessity. It also provides a policy and reimbursement overview summarizing payer coverage patterns where available and practical considerations for coding audits and quality reporting.
This resource is written for clinicians, revenue cycle staff, and policy analysts seeking a concise national-level briefing on clinical intent, billing practice, and payer considerations for CPT code 36595.
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Billing Code Overview
CPT code 36595 describes a procedure in which the provider inserts a wire or other instrument through a separate venous access into or around a central venous access device tip to remove material, such as fibrin, that is obstructing flow through the device. This procedure is performed to restore or improve patency of an existing central venous access device.
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Service type: Device maintenance/intervention for central venous access (mechanical clearance of catheter tip obstruction)
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Typical site of service: Hospital inpatient or outpatient setting, interventional radiology suite, or specialized procedure room where sterile vascular access and imaging guidance are available
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