How To Use CPT Code 50382

CPT 50382 describes the procedure of removing and replacing an internally dwelling ureteral stent via a percutaneous approach, including radiological supervision and interpretation. This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 50382?

CPT 50382 can be used to describe the removal and replacement of an internally dwelling ureteral stent via a percutaneous approach. This procedure involves the provider using imaging guidance to remove the old stent and place a new one in the patient’s body.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 50382 is: ‘Removal (via snare/capture) and replacement of internally dwelling ureteral stent via percutaneous approach, including radiological supervision and interpretation.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient for the procedure and administers anesthesia.
2. An incision is made at the entry site, and a needle is introduced into the appropriate renal calyx.
3. Imaging guidance is used to confirm the needle position and visualize the kidneys and ureters.
4. A guidewire is placed into the renal pelvis through the needle, and the needle is removed.
5. The provider widens the tract and places a sheath over the guidewire into the renal pelvis.
6. A snare device is advanced through the renal pelvis into the ureter to catch the old stent.
7. A guide wire is passed through the stent to remove it, and a replacement stent is positioned in the bladder.
8. The precise placement of the replacement stent is analyzed radiographically.
9. All instruments are removed, and the procedure is completed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 50382 is used for patients who require the removal and replacement of an internally dwelling ureteral stent via a percutaneous approach. This procedure is typically performed when the stent needs to be changed or if there are complications with the existing stent. The provider must use imaging guidance during the procedure, and radiological supervision and interpretation are included in the code.

5. When to use CPT code 50382

CPT code 50382 should be used when the provider performs the removal and replacement of an internally dwelling ureteral stent via a percutaneous approach. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description, including the use of imaging guidance and radiological supervision and interpretation.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 50382, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for the removal and replacement of the ureteral stent
• Details of the procedure, including the use of imaging guidance and radiological supervision and interpretation
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Specific steps taken during the procedure, such as the placement of the guidewire and the use of a snare device
• Any complications or additional interventions performed
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 50382, ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. The use of imaging guidance and radiological supervision and interpretation should be documented and included in the billing. It is important to follow any additional guidelines or modifiers specified by the payer to ensure accurate and appropriate reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 50382 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2006. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A urologist performing the removal and replacement of an internally dwelling ureteral stent via a percutaneous approach for a patient with recurrent kidney stones.
2. An interventional radiologist conducting the removal and replacement of an internally dwelling ureteral stent via a percutaneous approach for a patient with ureteral obstruction.
3. A nephrologist performing the removal and replacement of an internally dwelling ureteral stent via a percutaneous approach for a patient with hydronephrosis.
4. An oncologist conducting the removal and replacement of an internally dwelling ureteral stent via a percutaneous approach for a patient undergoing chemotherapy.
5. A urological surgeon performing the removal and replacement of an internally dwelling ureteral stent via a percutaneous approach for a patient with urinary tract infection.
6. An interventional radiologist conducting the removal and replacement of an internally dwelling ureteral stent via a percutaneous approach for a patient with ureteral stricture.
7. A urologist performing the removal and replacement of an internally dwelling ureteral stent via a percutaneous approach for a patient with bladder cancer.
8. An interventional radiologist conducting the removal and replacement of an internally dwelling ureteral stent via a percutaneous approach for a patient with renal colic.
9. A nephrologist performing the removal and replacement of an internally dwelling ureteral stent via a percutaneous approach for a patient with polycystic kidney disease.
10. An oncologist conducting the removal and replacement of an internally dwelling ureteral stent via a percutaneous approach for a patient with metastatic prostate cancer.