How To Use CPT Code 50715

CPT 50715 describes the surgical procedure known as ureterolysis, which involves freeing the ureter from fibrous bands of inflamed tissues in the retroperitoneum. 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 50715?

CPT 50715 is a code used to describe the surgical procedure called ureterolysis. This procedure involves freeing the ureter from fibrous bands of inflamed tissues in the retroperitoneum, which is the space between the peritoneum and the abdominal wall. It may also include repositioning of the ureter if necessary. Ureterolysis is typically performed to treat retroperitoneal fibrosis, a condition characterized by inflammation and fibrosis in the retroperitoneal space.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 50715 is: ‘Ureterolysis, with or without repositioning of ureter for retroperitoneal fibrosis.’ It is important to note that if the procedure is performed bilaterally, modifier 50 should be appended to the code.

3. Procedure

During the ureterolysis procedure, the healthcare provider begins by making an incision in the skin of the abdomen over the location of the ureter. They then carefully dissect through the subcutaneous tissue to expose the ureter. The provider identifies the fibrous tissues surrounding or adhering to the ureter and meticulously dissects them to free the ureter. If possible, the provider may reshape the ureter using sutures and reposition it away from the fibrotic tissue. In some cases, the ureter may need to be divided and reattached to the kidney. A small catheter may be inserted into the ureter to aid in healing and reduce urine leakage. Additionally, a drain tube may be placed in the abdomen, and a bladder catheter may be inserted to monitor urine output. The provider ensures hemostasis and closes the abdominal wound with sutures.

4. Qualifying circumstances

Patients who may require ureterolysis are those diagnosed with retroperitoneal fibrosis, a condition characterized by inflammation and fibrosis in the retroperitoneal space. The procedure is performed to free the ureter from fibrous bands that may be causing obstruction or other complications. It is important to note that if the procedure is performed bilaterally, modifier 50 should be appended to the code.

5. When to use CPT code 50715

CPT code 50715 should be used when the healthcare provider performs ureterolysis to free the ureter from fibrous bands in the retroperitoneum. It is important to ensure that the procedure is performed for the treatment of retroperitoneal fibrosis and that the documentation supports the medical necessity of the procedure.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 50715, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of retroperitoneal fibrosis
• Description of the fibrous bands and their impact on the ureter
• Details of the procedure, including any repositioning of the ureter
• Use of any catheters or drain tubes
• Documentation of hemostasis and wound closure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 50715, it is important to ensure that the procedure is performed for the treatment of retroperitoneal fibrosis. Modifier 50 should be appended to the code if the procedure is performed bilaterally. It is also important to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer or coding guidelines.

8. Historical information

CPT code 50715 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. It has not undergone any updates since its addition. In 2017, it was added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare.

9. Similar codes to CPT 50715

Five similar codes to CPT 50715 include:

• CPT 50722: Ureterolysis for ovarian vein syndrome
• CPT 50725: Ureterolysis for retrocaval ureter, with reanastomosis of upper urinary tract or vena cava
• CPT [Insert similar code 3]
• CPT [Insert similar code 4]
• CPT [Insert similar code 5]

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider performs ureterolysis to free the ureter from fibrous bands in a patient diagnosed with retroperitoneal fibrosis.
2. During a surgical procedure, the provider identifies and releases fibrous bands that are causing obstruction in the ureter.
3. Ureterolysis is performed to reposition the ureter away from fibrotic tissue and restore proper urinary flow.
4. A patient with retroperitoneal fibrosis undergoes ureterolysis to alleviate symptoms and improve kidney function.
5. The healthcare provider performs ureterolysis to treat a patient with retroperitoneal fibrosis and restore normal ureteral function.
6. During the procedure, the provider carefully dissects the fibrous bands surrounding the ureter to free it from obstruction.
7. Ureterolysis is performed to relieve pain and improve urinary flow in a patient with retroperitoneal fibrosis.
8. The healthcare provider uses CPT code 50715 to bill for the ureterolysis procedure performed on a patient with retroperitoneal fibrosis.
9. During the surgical intervention, the provider reshapes the ureter and repositions it to ensure proper urinary function.
10. A patient with retroperitoneal fibrosis undergoes ureterolysis to alleviate symptoms and prevent further complications.