How To Use CPT Code 50234

CPT 50234 describes the surgical procedure for the removal of a kidney and total ureterectomy with excision of the bladder cuff through the same incision. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 50234?

CPT 50234 is used to describe a surgical procedure that involves the removal of a kidney, total ureterectomy, and excision of the bladder cuff. This procedure is typically performed to treat renal cell carcinoma. The surgery is performed through the same incision, allowing for the removal of the kidney and all associated structures.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 50234 is: ‘Nephrectomy with total ureterectomy and bladder cuff; through same incision.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is positioned appropriately and placed under general anesthesia.
2. An incision is made in the abdomen, which is carried down through several muscle layers and fascia.
3. The bladder cuff and ureter orifices are identified, and the kidney is exposed.
4. The ureter orifices and bladder cuff are dissected sharply, and the kidney is removed.
5. A tube is placed in the renal pelvis and connected to the skin to allow urinary drainage.
6. The abdominal incision site is closed with sutures.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 50234 is performed when there is a need to remove the kidney, total ureter, and bladder cuff through the same incision. This procedure is typically indicated for the treatment of renal cell carcinoma. It is important to note that CPT 50234 should not be used if the same surgery has been performed on the same kidney in the past.

5. When to use CPT code 50234

CPT code 50234 should be used when a nephrectomy is performed with the total removal of the ureter and bladder cuff through the same incision. It is important to accurately document the procedure and ensure that it meets the criteria outlined in the code description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 50234, the following documentation is required:

• Patient’s diagnosis necessitating the procedure
• Details of the surgical procedure performed, including the removal of the kidney, total ureterectomy, and excision of the bladder cuff
• Date of the surgery
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Any additional relevant information or complications encountered during the surgery
• Signature of the performing physician

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 50234, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria outlined in the code description. It is important to accurately document the surgical procedure and provide the necessary supporting documentation. Additionally, be aware of any specific guidelines or requirements set forth by insurance providers or payers.

8. Historical information

CPT 50234 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code has undergone no updates or changes since its addition. However, it is important to stay updated with any changes or revisions to the code in the future.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes a nephrectomy with total ureterectomy and excision of the bladder cuff through the same incision to treat renal cell carcinoma.
2. A surgeon performs a nephrectomy with total ureterectomy and removal of the bladder cuff through the same incision for a patient with a complex kidney condition.
3. A nephrologist performs a nephrectomy with total ureterectomy and excision of the bladder cuff through the same incision to address a patient’s advanced renal disease.
4. A urologist performs a nephrectomy with total ureterectomy and removal of the bladder cuff through the same incision for a patient with a recurrent kidney infection.
5. A surgical team performs a nephrectomy with total ureterectomy and excision of the bladder cuff through the same incision to address a patient’s kidney and ureteral stones.
6. A patient undergoes a nephrectomy with total ureterectomy and removal of the bladder cuff through the same incision as part of a multi-disciplinary approach to treat their complex urological condition.
7. A surgeon performs a nephrectomy with total ureterectomy and excision of the bladder cuff through the same incision to address a patient’s kidney and bladder cancer.
8. A patient undergoes a nephrectomy with total ureterectomy and removal of the bladder cuff through the same incision to treat a congenital kidney abnormality.
9. A urologist performs a nephrectomy with total ureterectomy and excision of the bladder cuff through the same incision to address a patient’s chronic kidney infection.
10. A surgical team performs a nephrectomy with total ureterectomy and removal of the bladder cuff through the same incision to address a patient’s kidney and ureteral trauma.