How To Use CPT Code 50384

CPT 50384 describes the procedure for the removal of an internally dwelling ureteral stent via a percutaneous approach, including radiological supervision and interpretation. 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 50384?

CPT 50384 can be used to describe the removal of an internally dwelling ureteral stent via a percutaneous approach. This procedure involves the provider using imaging guidance to remove the stent from the renal pelvis. It is important to note that this code should not be reported in conjunction with codes 50382 and 50384, and for a transurethral approach, code 50386 should be used.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 50384 is: ‘Removal (via snare/capture) of internally dwelling ureteral stent via percutaneous approach, including radiological supervision and interpretation.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient for the procedure, including anesthesia and prepping the entry site.
2. An incision is made, and a needle is introduced into the appropriate renal calyx under imaging guidance.
3. Contrast is injected, and fluoroscopy is used to confirm the position of the needle and visualize the relevant anatomy.
4. A guide wire 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 guide wire into the renal pelvis.
6. A snare device is advanced through the sheath into the renal pelvis and then into the ureter.
7. The provider grasps the stent with the snare device and pulls it out.
8. The procedure is performed under radiological supervision and interpretation.
9. All instruments are removed, and the procedure is completed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 50384 is used for the removal of an internally dwelling ureteral stent via a percutaneous approach. This procedure is performed under radiological supervision and interpretation. It is important to note that this code should not be reported in conjunction with codes 50382 and 50384, and for a transurethral approach, code 50386 should be used.

5. When to use CPT code 50384

CPT code 50384 should be used when a provider performs the removal of an internally dwelling ureteral stent via a percutaneous approach. It is important to ensure that the procedure is performed under radiological supervision and interpretation. This code should not be reported in conjunction with codes 50382 and 50384, and for a transurethral approach, code 50386 should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 50384, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for stent removal
• Details of the procedure, including the percutaneous approach and use of imaging guidance
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Imaging findings and interpretation
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 50384, ensure that the procedure is performed via a percutaneous approach and includes radiological supervision and interpretation. It is important to note that this code should not be reported in conjunction with codes 50382 and 50384, and for a transurethral approach, code 50386 should be used.

8. Historical information

CPT 50384 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2006. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A urologist performing the removal of an internally dwelling ureteral stent via a percutaneous approach, including radiological supervision and interpretation.
2. An interventional radiologist removing an internally dwelling ureteral stent using imaging guidance and a snare device.
3. A nephrologist performing the removal of an internally dwelling ureteral stent via a percutaneous approach, under radiological supervision and interpretation.
4. A urology surgeon removing an internally dwelling ureteral stent using fluoroscopy and a snare device.
5. An interventional radiologist performing the removal of an internally dwelling ureteral stent via a percutaneous approach, with radiological supervision and interpretation.
6. A urologist removing an internally dwelling ureteral stent using imaging guidance and a snare device.
7. An interventional radiologist performing the removal of an internally dwelling ureteral stent via a percutaneous approach, under radiological supervision and interpretation.
8. A nephrologist removing an internally dwelling ureteral stent using fluoroscopy and a snare device.
9. A urology surgeon performing the removal of an internally dwelling ureteral stent via a percutaneous approach, with radiological supervision and interpretation.
10. An interventional radiologist removing an internally dwelling ureteral stent using imaging guidance and a snare device.