CPT 36160
Establish access to aorta
CPT 36160 at a glance
- Code
- 36160
- Code type
- CPT/HCPCS
- Short descriptor
- Establish access to aorta
- Category
- ASC Surgical
- ASC payment status
- Payable in an ASC (surgical)
- CMS addendum
- AA (Surgical)
- Typical setting
- Ambulatory surgery center (POS 24) or hospital outpatient department (POS 22).
What is CPT code 36160?
CPT 36160 is a CPT/HCPCS procedure code. Its official CMS short descriptor is "Establish access to aorta". In the ASC context it is grouped under ASC Surgical.
Is CPT 36160 payable in an ambulatory surgery center (ASC)?
CPT 36160 appears on Medicare's ASC Covered Procedures List (CMS Addendum AA), so Medicare reimburses it when the surgery is performed in a certified ambulatory surgery center.
Where is CPT 36160 typically performed?
Ambulatory surgery center (POS 24) or hospital outpatient department (POS 22).
Which specialties use CPT 36160?
CPT 36160 is most associated with General Surgery, Vascular & Interventional Radiology.
Reference information compiled from the CMS April 2026 ASC payment addenda (AA, BB, EE). Codes, descriptors, and ASC payment status change with each CMS update. This is a coding reference, not billing, coding, or legal advice. Always verify against the current CMS addenda and individual payer policy before billing. CPT is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association.