How To Use CPT Code 50740

CPT 50740 describes the procedure known as ureteropyelostomy, which involves the anastomosis of the ureter and renal pelvis. 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 50740?

CPT 50740 is used to describe the surgical procedure called ureteropyelostomy. This procedure involves the excision of a blocked or occluded segment of the ureter and the reattachment of the healthy portion to the renal pelvis, which is the upper part of the ureter.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 50740 is: ‘Ureteropyelostomy, anastomosis of ureter and renal pelvis.’

3. Procedure

1. During the procedure, the healthcare provider makes an incision through the skin, muscles, and fascia to access the affected area near the renal pelvis.
2. The provider then removes the occluded portion of the ureter in the renal pelvis region.
3. Next, the remaining healthy portion of the ureter is reattached to the renal pelvis using sutures.
4. After completing the anastomosis, the provider closes the surgical site with layered closure.
5. The patient is then transferred to the recovery room for post-operative care.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 50740 is performed on patients who have an occluded or blocked segment of the ureter that requires surgical intervention. The procedure is typically performed by a qualified healthcare provider who has the necessary expertise in urological surgery.

5. When to use CPT code 50740

CPT code 50740 should be used when a healthcare provider performs the ureteropyelostomy procedure to treat a patient with a blocked or occluded segment of the ureter. 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 50740, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis indicating the need for ureteropyelostomy
• Description of the procedure performed, including details of the excision and anastomosis
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional relevant information or complications encountered during the procedure
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 50740, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. Additionally, it is essential to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer or insurance company. It is also important to review any applicable modifiers that may be required for accurate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT 50740 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code has undergone no updates or changes since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient with a blocked segment of the ureter undergoes ureteropyelostomy to restore proper urine flow.
2. A healthcare provider performs ureteropyelostomy on a patient with a history of recurrent kidney stones.
3. A patient with a congenital ureteral obstruction undergoes ureteropyelostomy to alleviate the blockage.
4. A healthcare provider performs ureteropyelostomy on a patient with a ureteral stricture caused by previous surgery.
5. A patient with a ureteral injury due to trauma undergoes ureteropyelostomy to repair the damaged ureter.
6. A healthcare provider performs ureteropyelostomy on a patient with a ureteral tumor to remove the affected segment and restore urinary function.
7. A patient with a ureteral obstruction caused by a kidney stone undergoes ureteropyelostomy to bypass the blockage.
8. A healthcare provider performs ureteropyelostomy on a patient with a ureteral stricture caused by chronic inflammation.
9. A patient with a ureteral injury during a previous surgery undergoes ureteropyelostomy to repair the damaged ureter.
10. A healthcare provider performs ureteropyelostomy on a patient with a ureteral tumor to remove the affected segment and prevent further spread of the cancer.