How To Use CPT Code 50525

CPT 50525 describes the closure of a nephrovisceral fistula using an abdominal approach. 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 50525?

CPT 50525 can be used to describe the surgical closure of a nephrovisceral fistula, which is an abnormal passageway between the kidney and other internal organs, such as the colon. The procedure is performed using an abdominal approach, where the provider makes an incision into the abdomen to access the kidney and ureter. The abnormal passage is identified using a catheter and radiopaque substance, and then the provider excises the upper surface of the passageway and closes it with sutures. A drainage catheter may also be placed to remove any fluid or infected material.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 50525 is: ‘Closure of nephrovisceral fistula (eg, renocolic), including visceral repair; abdominal approach.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider makes an incision into the abdomen to expose the kidney and ureter.
2. The perirenal muscles and surrounding fatty layers are dissected to visualize the abnormal passageway.
3. A catheter and radiopaque substance are inserted into the ureter to identify the extent and path of the fistula.
4. The upper surface of the passageway is excised, and healthy tissues are sutured together to close the open pathway.
5. A drainage catheter may be placed through a separate incision to remove fluid or infected material.
6. The incision site is closed with sutures.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 50525 is performed when there is a nephrovisceral fistula that requires closure. This abnormal passageway can cause complications and requires surgical intervention. The procedure is performed using an abdominal approach, and the patient must be prepped and anesthetized.

5. When to use CPT code 50525

CPT code 50525 should be used when a provider performs the closure of a nephrovisceral fistula using an abdominal approach. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 50525, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for closure of the nephrovisceral fistula
• Details of the procedure, including the abdominal approach and any additional repairs performed
• Date of the procedure
• Any complications or unexpected findings during the procedure
• Post-operative care instructions
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 50525, ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure and any additional repairs performed. CPT code 50525 should not be reported with other codes unless they are necessary and meet the specific requirements for reporting multiple procedures.

8. Historical information

CPT 50525 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. It was later added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare in 2017.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs the closure of a nephrovisceral fistula using an abdominal approach for a patient with a history of kidney and colon complications.
2. During a surgical procedure, a provider identifies and closes a nephrovisceral fistula between the kidney and colon using an abdominal approach.
3. A patient undergoes a surgical procedure to close a nephrovisceral fistula, and the provider utilizes an abdominal approach for the closure.
4. Using an abdominal approach, a provider surgically closes a nephrovisceral fistula between the kidney and colon, ensuring proper closure of the abnormal passageway.
5. A patient with a nephrovisceral fistula undergoes a surgical procedure, and the provider performs the closure using an abdominal approach.
6. During a surgical intervention, a provider identifies and repairs a nephrovisceral fistula between the kidney and colon, utilizing an abdominal approach for the closure.
7. A patient with a nephrovisceral fistula undergoes a surgical procedure, and the provider successfully closes the abnormal passageway using an abdominal approach.
8. Using an abdominal approach, a provider surgically closes a nephrovisceral fistula between the kidney and colon, ensuring proper closure of the abnormal passageway.
9. A patient with a history of kidney and colon complications undergoes a surgical procedure, and the provider performs the closure of a nephrovisceral fistula using an abdominal approach.
10. During a surgical intervention, a provider identifies and repairs a nephrovisceral fistula between the kidney and colon, utilizing an abdominal approach for the closure.