How To Use CPT Code 50396

CPT 50396 describes the procedure of manometric studies through nephrostomy or pyelostomy tube, or indwelling ureteral catheter. 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 50396?

CPT 50396 can be used to describe the procedure of manometric studies through nephrostomy or pyelostomy tube, or indwelling ureteral catheter. This code is used when the provider connects an indwelling ureteral catheter or an existing nephrostomy or pyelostomy tube to a manometer line to measure the pressure of fluids or any variation in pressure between fluids in the kidneys and ureters. The purpose of this procedure is to examine any blockage or obstruction, dilatation, or expansion of the upper urinary tract.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 50396 is: ‘Manometric studies through nephrostomy or pyelostomy tube, or indwelling ureteral catheter.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider inserts a catheter through the urethra while the patient is prepped and anesthetized.
2. The existing nephrostomy or pyelostomy tube is disconnected from the drainage bag.
3. The nephrostomy tube, pyelostomy tube, or a bladder catheter is connected to the manometer line to obtain pressure measurements.
4. Contrast material is injected into the kidney, and serial pressures are obtained in the kidneys, bladder, and ureters.
5. The manometer is disconnected from the bladder catheter, nephrostomy, or pyelostomy tubes.
6. The drainage bag is connected to the tubes, and the bladder catheter is removed.
7. The provider analyzes the manometry recording and prepares a report.

4. Qualifying circumstances

Patients who may require CPT 50396 are those who need manometric studies to examine blockages, obstructions, dilatation, or expansion of the upper urinary tract. The procedure involves connecting an indwelling ureteral catheter or an existing nephrostomy or pyelostomy tube to a manometer line to measure pressure. This procedure is performed by a provider who is trained and qualified to perform manometric studies.

5. When to use CPT code 50396

CPT code 50396 should be used when a provider performs manometric studies through a nephrostomy or pyelostomy tube, or indwelling ureteral catheter. This code is used to report the procedure of measuring pressure in the kidneys and ureters using a manometer. It should not be used for other procedures or services.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 50396, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for performing manometric studies
• Details of the procedure, including the use of an indwelling ureteral catheter or an existing nephrostomy or pyelostomy tube
• Date and time of the procedure
• Pressure measurements obtained during the procedure
• Analysis of the manometry recording
• Preparation of a report by the provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 50396, ensure that the procedure involves manometric studies through a nephrostomy or pyelostomy tube, or indwelling ureteral catheter. Follow the appropriate coding guidelines and ensure accurate documentation to support the claim. CPT code 50396 should not be reported with other codes unless necessary and supported by medical necessity.

8. Historical information

CPT 50396 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs manometric studies through a nephrostomy tube to measure pressure in the kidneys and ureters.
2. A patient undergoes manometric studies through an indwelling ureteral catheter to examine any blockage or obstruction in the upper urinary tract.
3. A provider connects a pyelostomy tube to a manometer line to measure pressure variations in the kidneys and ureters.
4. A patient with suspected dilatation of the upper urinary tract undergoes manometric studies through a nephrostomy tube.
5. A provider performs manometric studies through an existing nephrostomy tube to assess any expansion in the upper urinary tract.
6. A patient undergoes manometric studies through an indwelling ureteral catheter to evaluate pressure changes in the kidneys and ureters.
7. A provider connects a pyelostomy tube to a manometer line to measure pressure in the upper urinary tract.
8. A patient with suspected blockage in the ureters undergoes manometric studies through a nephrostomy tube.
9. A provider performs manometric studies through an existing nephrostomy tube to assess any obstruction in the upper urinary tract.
10. A patient undergoes manometric studies through an indwelling ureteral catheter to evaluate pressure variations in the kidneys and ureters.