How To Use CPT Code 50575

CPT 50575 describes a specific endoscopic procedure performed on the kidney. This article will cover the description, official details, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 50575?

CPT 50575 is a code used to describe a renal endoscopy procedure. This procedure involves the use of a renal endoscope to examine the internal structures of the renal collecting system. The physician makes an incision in the skin over the kidney or renal pelvis and inserts the endoscope to visualize and analyze the kidney’s interior. The procedure may also include the incision of the ureteropelvic junction, the insertion of an endopyelotomy stent, and the widening of the ureter and ureteropelvic junction.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 50575 is: ‘Renal endoscopy through nephrotomy or pyelotomy, with or without irrigation, instillation, or ureteropyelography, exclusive of radiologic service; with endopyelotomy (includes cystoscopy, ureteroscopy, dilation of ureter and ureteral pelvic junction, incision of ureteral pelvic junction and insertion of endopyelotomy stent)’

3. Procedure

1. In this procedure, the physician begins by making an incision in the skin over the kidney or renal pelvis.
2. An endoscope, a small, flexible tube with an optical system, is inserted through the incision to visualize the internal structures of the renal collecting system.
3. To enhance visibility, the physician may inject sterile saline solution into the kidney area or use contrast material for X-ray photography.
4. A cystoscope may also be inserted through the urethra to examine the bladder, lower urinary tract, and prostate gland.
5. A guidewire is passed through the ureter to widen any narrowed portions of the ureteropelvic junction.
6. An ureteroscope is then advanced over the guidewire through the urethra, bladder, and into the ureter to examine it.
7. If an endopyelotomy is necessary, the physician makes an incision at the blockage area using a cutting instrument such as a laser or scalpel.
8. The incision can be performed through an antegrade or retrograde approach, depending on the location of the obstruction.
9. An endopyelotomy stent is inserted to facilitate temporary drainage from the ureteropelvic junction towards the bladder.
10. Once the procedure is complete, all surgical instruments are withdrawn, and a urinary drainage catheter tube may be placed for temporary urine flow.
11. The skin incision is then closed with sutures.