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BackTable / VI / Article
2025 Venous Access CPT Code
Bryant Schmitz • Updated Jul 31, 2025 • 38 hits
Venous access CPT code 36561 is used to report the insertion of a tunneled centrally inserted central venous access device (CVAD) with a subcutaneous port in patients aged 5 years or older. This code is commonly utilized by interventional radiologists, vascular surgeons, and oncologists for long-term medication delivery, such as chemotherapy or total parenteral nutrition. This article provides guidance on the appropriate use and documentation requirements for CPT code 36561.
Table of Contents
(1) CPT Code for Venous Access
(2) Detailed Description of CPT Code 36561
(3) Coding & Billing Considerations
(4) Why Proper Coding Is Important
(5) What is a CPT Code?
(6) Disclaimer
CPT Code for Venous Access
CPT code 36561 describes the insertion of a tunneled central venous access device with a subcutaneous port in patients older than 5 years. It includes image guidance and is used for long-term venous access.
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Detailed Description of CPT Code 36561
• CPT Code: 36561
• Code Description: Insertion of tunneled centrally inserted central venous access device, with subcutaneous port; age 5 years or older
• Inclusions: Image guidance for placement, creation of subcutaneous pocket, catheter tunneling, venous access, and securement
• Exclusions: Device removal, catheter repair or replacement, management of complications (billed separately)
Coding & Billing Considerations
• Use CPT code 36561 only when inserting a new tunneled CVAD with a port in patients 5 years or older.
• Imaging guidance is included and should not be billed separately.
• Use appropriate diagnosis codes indicating the need for long-term vascular access (e.g., cancer, chronic illness).
• For device removals, use CPT code 36590 or 36589 depending on the method.
• Ensure documentation specifies age, tunneled status, and presence of a port.
Why Proper Coding Is Important
Accurate coding for venous access procedures is essential to ensure appropriate reimbursement and minimize audit risk. Proper code selection supports medical necessity, helps align documentation with procedural services, and promotes compliance with payer policies. Using the correct CPT code like 36561 ensures that healthcare providers receive fair compensation for their expertise and resources used.
What is a CPT Code?
CPT stands for Current Procedural Terminology. These codes are used by medical professionals to describe procedures and services performed. CPT codes are crucial for the billing process, allowing healthcare providers to communicate with insurance companies and other payers about the procedures performed.
Disclaimer
The information provided here reflects our understanding of the procedure(s) and/or device(s). This information should not be construed as authoritative. We encourage you to consult CMS.
Podcast Contributors
Dr. Arun Jagannathan
Dr. Arun Jagannathan is a practicing interventional radiologist with Central Illinois Radiological Associates in the Chicago area.
Dr. Jeffrey Chick
Dr. Jeffrey Chick is a practicing interventional radiologist with Inova Alexandria Hospital in Virginia.
Dr. Christopher Beck
Dr. Chris Beck is a practicing interventional radiologist with Regional Radiology Group in New Orleans.
Cite This Podcast
BackTable, LLC (Producer). (2019, March 26). Ep. 40 – Treating the Difficult IV Access (DiVA) Patient [Audio podcast]. Retrieved from https://www.backtable.com
Disclaimer: The Materials available on BackTable.com are for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for the professional judgment of a healthcare professional in diagnosing and treating patients. The opinions expressed by participants of the BackTable Podcast belong solely to the participants, and do not necessarily reflect the views of BackTable.
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