How To Use CPT Code 50810

CPT 50810 describes the creation of a bladder structure using a segment of the sigmoid colon, with the insertion of the ureters and the establishment of an abdominal or perineal colostomy. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 50810?

CPT 50810 can be used to describe the surgical procedure in which a bladder structure is created using a segment of the sigmoid colon. This procedure is performed when a patient’s urinary bladder has been removed due to cancer or other reasons. The ureters are inserted into the sigmoid colon structure, and an abdominal or perineal colostomy is established to allow the passage of urine through an artificial outlet.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 50810 is: ‘Ureterosigmoidostomy, with creation of sigmoid bladder and establishment of abdominal or perineal colostomy, including intestine anastomosis.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making a midline abdominal incision, cutting through the skin, muscles, and fascia.
2. Once inside the abdominal cavity, the sigmoid colon and ureters are carefully pulled out.
3. A segment of the sigmoid colon is excised and closed on one end to create a pouch-like structure.
4. Two small incisions are made on the structure, and each ureter is stitched to one of these incisions, allowing urine to pass into the pocket formed with the sigmoid colon.
5. An opening, called a colostomy, is created on the abdominal wall or perineum, and the segment of sigmoid colon is stitched to this opening.
6. The loose end of the sigmoid colon is then stitched back to the intestine, maintaining the continuity of the colon.
7. The abdominal cavity is irrigated with antibiotics, and the incisions are closed with sutures.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 50810 is performed on patients who have had their urinary bladder removed and require an alternative method for urine elimination. The procedure involves the creation of a bladder structure using the sigmoid colon and the establishment of an abdominal or perineal colostomy. It is typically performed by a qualified healthcare professional in a hospital or surgical setting.

5. When to use CPT code 50810

CPT code 50810 should be used when a patient undergoes the surgical procedure of ureterosigmoidostomy with the creation of a sigmoid bladder and the establishment of an abdominal or perineal colostomy. This code accurately describes the specific steps involved in the procedure and should be used for reporting purposes.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 50810, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s medical history and the need for the procedure
• Details of the surgical procedure performed, including the creation of the sigmoid bladder, establishment of the colostomy, and intestine anastomosis
• Date of the procedure and the duration of the surgery
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 50810, ensure that the procedure was performed by a qualified healthcare professional and that all necessary documentation is provided. It is important to follow the specific guidelines set forth by the payer to ensure accurate and timely reimbursement. Additionally, be aware of any specific coding requirements or modifiers that may be necessary for proper billing.

8. Historical information

CPT 50810 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code underwent a change on January 1, 2002, with an updated description. In 2017, it was added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes CPT 50810 for the creation of a sigmoid bladder and the establishment of an abdominal colostomy following the removal of their urinary bladder due to cancer.
2. A healthcare provider performs CPT 50810 to create a bladder structure using the sigmoid colon and establish a perineal colostomy for a patient who has undergone bladder removal surgery.
3. During a surgical procedure, CPT 50810 is used to create a sigmoid bladder and establish an abdominal colostomy for a patient with a congenital bladder defect.
4. A qualified healthcare professional performs CPT 50810 to create a bladder structure using the sigmoid colon and establish a perineal colostomy for a patient with a history of bladder dysfunction.
5. Following the removal of the urinary bladder, a patient undergoes CPT 50810 to create a sigmoid bladder and establish an abdominal colostomy to facilitate urine elimination.