How To Use CPT Code 50686

CPT 50686 describes the procedure of performing manometric studies through a ureterostomy or indwelling ureteral catheter. 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 50686?

CPT 50686 is used to describe the procedure of conducting manometric studies through a ureterostomy or indwelling ureteral catheter. This code is utilized when a healthcare provider connects a manometer to an existing ureterostomy tube or an indwelling ureteral catheter to evaluate ureteral function or measure pressure variations in the kidneys and ureters. The purpose of this procedure is to examine blockages, obstructions, dilatation, or expansion of the urinary tract.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 50686 is: ‘Manometric studies through ureterostomy or indwelling ureteral catheter.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider prepares the patient and cleans the skin around the ureterostomy tube insertion site with an antibacterial solution.
2. The provider connects the ureterostomy tube or ureteral catheter to the manometer line.
3. Measurements of pressures are obtained by slowly injecting contrast material into the ureter and obtaining serial pressures in the ureter and bladder.
4. After completing the manometric studies, the provider removes residual fluid in the manometer line and disconnects the manometer from the catheter or ureterostomy tube.
5. The provider analyzes the manometry recording and prepares a report based on the findings.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 50686 is performed when a healthcare provider needs to evaluate ureteral function or measure pressure variations in the kidneys and ureters. This procedure is typically used to examine blockages, obstructions, dilatation, or expansion of the urinary tract. It is important to note that the provider must connect the manometer to an existing ureterostomy tube or an indwelling ureteral catheter to perform the procedure.

5. When to use CPT code 50686

CPT code 50686 should be used when a healthcare provider performs manometric studies through a ureterostomy or indwelling ureteral catheter. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific requirements outlined in the official description of the code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 50686, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Reason for performing manometric studies and the specific condition being evaluated
• Details of the procedure, including the connection of the manometer to the ureterostomy tube or ureteral catheter
• Measurement of pressures obtained during the procedure
• Analysis of the manometry recording and any significant findings
• Preparation of a report based on the findings

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 50686, ensure that the procedure meets the requirements outlined in the official description. It is important to accurately report the use of an existing ureterostomy tube or indwelling ureteral catheter and the connection to the manometer. Review the specific billing guidelines provided by the payer to ensure proper reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 50686 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A urologist performing manometric studies through an indwelling ureteral catheter to evaluate ureteral function in a patient with suspected urinary tract obstruction.
2. A nephrologist connecting a manometer to a ureterostomy tube to measure pressure variations in the kidneys and ureters of a patient with a history of dilatation in the urinary tract.
3. A radiologist performing manometric studies through an indwelling ureteral catheter to examine blockages in the ureter of a patient with recurrent urinary tract infections.
4. A urologist analyzing manometry recordings and preparing a report based on the findings of pressure measurements in the ureter and bladder of a patient with suspected ureteral reflux.
5. A urologist performing manometric studies through a ureterostomy tube to evaluate the effectiveness of a previous surgical procedure in a patient with a history of ureteral strictures.
6. A nephrologist connecting a manometer to an indwelling ureteral catheter to measure pressures in the kidneys and ureters of a patient with suspected urinary tract obstruction due to kidney stones.
7. A radiologist analyzing manometry recordings and preparing a report based on the findings of pressure measurements in the ureter and bladder of a patient with suspected ureteral obstruction.
8. A urologist performing manometric studies through a ureterostomy tube to evaluate the success of a recent ureteral stent placement in a patient with a history of ureteral strictures.
9. A nephrologist connecting a manometer to an indwelling ureteral catheter to measure pressures in the kidneys and ureters of a patient with suspected ureteral reflux.
10. A radiologist analyzing manometry recordings and preparing a report based on the findings of pressure measurements in the ureter and bladder of a patient with suspected ureteral obstruction.