How To Use CPT Code 50947

CPT 50947 describes the laparoscopic procedure of ureteroneocystostomy with cystoscopy and ureteral stent placement. 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 50947?

CPT 50947 can be used to describe a laparoscopic surgical procedure in which the provider reimplants the ureter into the bladder. This procedure is performed using a laparoscope, cystoscope, or endoscope to examine the bladder and lower urinary tract. It also involves the placement of a stent. The purpose of this procedure is to treat ureteral injury, stricture, and/or obstruction.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 50947 is: ‘Laparoscopy, surgical; ureteroneocystostomy with cystoscopy and ureteral stent placement.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making a small incision near the navel to access the abdominal cavity.
2. A disposable trocar is introduced, and the abdomen is inflated with carbon dioxide.
3. A laparoscope is passed through the trocar to view the ureter and bladder.
4. The provider makes additional ports or incisions as needed to insert other instruments.
5. Tissue surrounding the ureter is dissected to free it.
6. The provider incises the bladder in a way that allows the ureter to lie without kinking.
7. The ureter is laid into the trough created in the bladder and connected to the new position.
8. A cystoscope is inserted into the bladder, and a ureteral stent is advanced up the ureter to the kidney.
9. A urethral catheter is placed, and the repair is tested for any leaks.
10. All instrumentation is removed, and the abdominal opening is closed in multiple layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 50947 is performed to treat ureteral injury, stricture, and/or obstruction. It is important to note that this procedure is done using a laparoscopic approach, and it involves the use of a laparoscope, cystoscope, or endoscope. The placement of a ureteral stent is also part of the procedure.

5. When to use CPT code 50947

CPT code 50947 should be used when a laparoscopic ureteroneocystostomy procedure is performed with cystoscopy and ureteral stent placement. It is important to accurately document the specific details of the procedure to support the use of this code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 50947, the following documentation is required:

• Indication for the procedure, such as ureteral injury, stricture, or obstruction
• Details of the laparoscopic approach and the use of a laparoscope, cystoscope, or endoscope
• Description of the ureteroneocystostomy procedure
• Documentation of the cystoscopy and ureteral stent placement
• Date of the procedure
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Any additional procedures performed during the same session
• Signature of the performing provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 50947, ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. It is important to accurately document the laparoscopic approach, cystoscopy, and ureteral stent placement. Additionally, be aware of any specific guidelines or requirements from payers regarding the use of this code.

8. Historical information

CPT 50947 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2001. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes a laparoscopic ureteroneocystostomy with cystoscopy and ureteral stent placement to treat ureteral stricture.
2. A laparoscopic procedure is performed on a patient with ureteral obstruction, involving ureteroneocystostomy, cystoscopy, and ureteral stent placement.
3. A provider performs a laparoscopic ureteroneocystostomy with cystoscopy and ureteral stent placement to repair a ureteral injury.
4. A patient with ureteral obstruction undergoes a laparoscopic procedure, including ureteroneocystostomy, cystoscopy, and ureteral stent placement.
5. A laparoscopic ureteroneocystostomy with cystoscopy and ureteral stent placement is performed on a patient with a ureteral stricture.
6. A provider performs a laparoscopic procedure on a patient with ureteral obstruction, involving ureteroneocystostomy, cystoscopy, and ureteral stent placement.
7. A patient undergoes a laparoscopic ureteroneocystostomy with cystoscopy and ureteral stent placement to repair a ureteral injury.
8. A laparoscopic procedure is performed on a patient with ureteral obstruction, including ureteroneocystostomy, cystoscopy, and ureteral stent placement.
9. A provider performs a laparoscopic ureteroneocystostomy with cystoscopy and ureteral stent placement to treat a ureteral stricture.