How To Use CPT Code 50380

CPT 50380 describes the procedure of renal autotransplantation, specifically the reimplantation of a kidney into a new site within the same individual. This article will cover the official description, procedure details, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 50380?

CPT 50380 is used to describe the reimplantation of a kidney into a new site within the same individual. This procedure involves the removal of the patient’s kidney from its normal anatomic location and the subsequent connection of renal and iliac vessels to reimplant the kidney into a new site.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 50380 is: ‘Renal autotransplantation, reimplantation of kidney.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making a middle transabdominal incision in the skin.
2. They then dissect the abdominal organs and cut through the transversalis fascia to enter the retroperitoneal space.
3. Next, the provider incises Gerota’s fascia and dissects the perinephric fat to expose the kidney.
4. After exposing the kidney and ureter, the provider prepares for reimplantation into the new site.
5. An incision is made in the lower abdomen, down to the rectus fascia, and the transverse abdominis muscles are exposed.
6. The iliac vessels and bladder are then exposed as the peritoneum reflects medially.
7. Vascular clamps are placed, and the iliac vessels are cut, tied, and cleansed with a cold solution.
8. The prepared renal vessels are anastomosed to the other arterial or venous site.
9. Vascular clamps are released, and the anastomosis sites are checked for any leakage or bleeding.
10. A temporary stent may be inserted to ensure an open anastomosis site.
11. The kidney is placed in the new site, and a plastic tube may be inserted for drainage.
12. The incision is closed in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 50380 is performed when a patient’s kidney needs to be reimplanted into a new site within their own body. This procedure is typically indicated for conditions that require the relocation of the kidney, such as renal autotransplantation. It is important to note that the procedure should be performed by a qualified healthcare professional with expertise in renal surgery.

5. When to use CPT code 50380

CPT code 50380 should be used when a provider performs the reimplantation of a kidney into a new site within the same patient. This code is specific to renal autotransplantation procedures and should not be used for other types of kidney surgeries or transplantations.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 50380, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis necessitating renal autotransplantation
• Details of the procedure, including the approach used and any modifications made
• Date of the procedure
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Any complications or unexpected findings during the surgery
• Postoperative care instructions and follow-up plans
• Signature of the performing healthcare professional

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 50380, ensure that the procedure performed is renal autotransplantation and that the documentation supports the medical necessity of the procedure. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer and use the appropriate modifiers if necessary. Additionally, be aware of any bundling or unbundling rules that may apply to this procedure.

8. Historical information

CPT 50380 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code has not undergone any updates since its addition. However, it is important to stay updated with any changes or revisions to the code in future editions of the CPT manual.

9. Examples

1. A patient with a renal tumor undergoes renal autotransplantation to reimplant the kidney into a new site within their own body.
2. A patient with recurrent kidney stones requires renal autotransplantation to alleviate the condition.
3. A patient with a congenital kidney abnormality undergoes renal autotransplantation to correct the anatomical issue.
4. A patient with renal artery stenosis undergoes renal autotransplantation to improve blood flow to the kidney.
5. A patient with a non-functioning kidney undergoes renal autotransplantation to restore kidney function.
6. A patient with a kidney injury requires renal autotransplantation to repair the damaged organ.
7. A patient with a kidney infection undergoes renal autotransplantation to prevent further complications.
8. A patient with a kidney cyst undergoes renal autotransplantation to remove the cyst and restore kidney function.
9. A patient with a kidney abnormality due to a genetic condition undergoes renal autotransplantation to improve their overall health.
10. A patient with a kidney tumor undergoes renal autotransplantation to remove the tumor and preserve kidney function.