How To Use CPT Code 50548

CPT 50548 describes the laparoscopic surgical procedure for nephrectomy with total ureterectomy. 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 50548?

CPT 50548 is used to describe a laparoscopic surgical procedure that involves the removal of a kidney and the entire ureter. This procedure is performed using a minimally invasive technique, which allows for smaller incisions and faster recovery times compared to traditional open surgery.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 50548 is: ‘Laparoscopy, surgical; nephrectomy with total ureterectomy.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is positioned in the prone position, or supine position for kidney transplant patients.
2. The surgical site is prepared with an antiseptic liquid and draped in a sterile fashion.
3. Under general anesthesia, the surgeon makes four incisions below the rib cage.
4. A scope is inserted through one of the incisions to provide visualization of the abdomen.
5. Trocars are inserted through the other incisions to allow for the insertion of surgical instruments.
6. The kidney is exposed and the ureter, as well as the blood vessels, are dissected out.
7. The kidney and the entire ureter are then removed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 50548 is performed on patients who require the removal of a kidney and the entire ureter. This procedure is typically indicated for conditions such as kidney cancer, severe kidney infections, or other diseases affecting the kidney and ureter. The patient must be a suitable candidate for laparoscopic surgery, and the procedure must be performed by a qualified surgeon.

5. When to use CPT code 50548

CPT code 50548 should be used when a laparoscopic surgical procedure is performed to remove a kidney and the entire ureter. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. If the procedure does not involve the total removal of the ureter, a different CPT code should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 50548, the surgeon must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the medical necessity for the procedure
• Details of the laparoscopic surgical technique used
• Date of the procedure
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Any additional procedures performed during the same operative session
• Any complications or unexpected findings
• Signature of the performing surgeon

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 50548, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. The surgeon should use the appropriate CPT code based on the specific details of the procedure performed. It is also important to follow any additional billing guidelines provided by the payer or regulatory authorities.

8. Historical information

CPT 50548 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2000. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition. However, it is important to stay updated with any changes or revisions to the code in future code sets.

9. Examples

1. A patient with kidney cancer undergoes a laparoscopic nephrectomy with total ureterectomy.
2. A patient with a severe kidney infection requires a laparoscopic nephrectomy with total ureterectomy.
3. A laparoscopic nephrectomy with total ureterectomy is performed on a patient with a congenital abnormality affecting the kidney and ureter.
4. A patient with a non-functioning kidney undergoes a laparoscopic nephrectomy with total ureterectomy.
5. A laparoscopic nephrectomy with total ureterectomy is performed on a patient with a kidney stone causing obstruction in the ureter.
6. A patient with a recurrent kidney infection requires a laparoscopic nephrectomy with total ureterectomy.
7. A laparoscopic nephrectomy with total ureterectomy is performed on a patient with a kidney tumor.
8. A patient with a chronic kidney disease undergoes a laparoscopic nephrectomy with total ureterectomy.
9. A laparoscopic nephrectomy with total ureterectomy is performed on a patient with a ureteral stricture.
10. A patient with a polycystic kidney disease requires a laparoscopic nephrectomy with total ureterectomy.