How To Use CPT Code 51703

CPT 51703 describes the insertion of a temporary indwelling bladder catheter in complicated cases, such as altered anatomy or a fractured catheter/balloon. 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 51703?

CPT 51703 is used to report the insertion of a temporary indwelling bladder catheter in complicated cases. This procedure involves the placement of a thin, flexible tube into the bladder to provide continuous urine drainage. It is typically performed when there are challenges due to altered anatomy, a fractured catheter, or a fractured balloon.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 51703 is: ‘Insertion of temporary indwelling bladder catheter; complicated (eg, altered anatomy, fractured catheter/balloon).’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is taken to the operating room and positioned supine.
2. The area of the urethra is washed out with an antiseptic solution or sterile water.
3. A temporary catheter is inserted into the bladder via the urethra.
4. The distal portion of the catheter is covered with a lubricating substance and a sterile drape is applied.
5. In females, the labia majora and labia minora are segregated, and the peri-urethral mucosa is cleaned with a cleansing solution.
6. In males, the penis is moved to a position at a right angle to the patient’s body to identify the meatus. The catheter is then smoothly inserted until urine is noted.
7. The balloon is expanded with approximately 10 cc of water to keep the catheter in place.
8. The catheter is secured with the abdomen and attached to a drainage bag.
9. The urine is drained from the bladder.
10. Once the catheter placement is completed, the equipment is disposed of appropriately.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 51703 is used in cases where the catheterization process is difficult due to complications such as a fractured catheter, fractured balloon, or altered anatomy. It is important to document the specific circumstances that make the procedure complicated.

5. When to use CPT code 51703

CPT code 51703 should be used when a temporary indwelling bladder catheter is inserted in complicated cases, as described in the official description. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for a complicated insertion, such as altered anatomy or a fractured catheter/balloon.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 51703, the following documentation is required:

• Description of the complications or qualifying circumstances that make the procedure complicated
• Date and time of the procedure
• Details of the catheter insertion process, including any specific techniques used
• Confirmation of successful catheter placement and urine drainage
• Documentation of any additional procedures or interventions performed during the same session
• Signature of the performing physician

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 51703, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for a complicated insertion. It is important to document the qualifying circumstances and complications that justify the use of this code. Additionally, be aware of any specific payer guidelines or requirements for reporting this procedure.

8. Historical information

CPT 51703 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2003. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient with altered anatomy requires the insertion of a temporary indwelling bladder catheter due to a fractured catheter. CPT code 51703 should be reported for this procedure.
2. In a complicated case, a patient with a fractured balloon requires the insertion of a temporary indwelling bladder catheter. CPT code 51703 is appropriate in this scenario.
3. A patient with altered anatomy and a fractured catheter undergoes the insertion of a temporary indwelling bladder catheter. CPT code 51703 should be used to report this procedure.
4. In a challenging case, a patient with altered anatomy requires the insertion of a temporary indwelling bladder catheter due to a fractured balloon. CPT code 51703 is the appropriate code for this procedure.
5. A patient with a fractured catheter and altered anatomy undergoes the insertion of a temporary indwelling bladder catheter. CPT code 51703 should be reported for this complicated procedure.
6. In a complicated case, a patient with a fractured balloon and altered anatomy requires the insertion of a temporary indwelling bladder catheter. CPT code 51703 is the correct code to use in this scenario.
7. A patient with altered anatomy and a fractured catheter undergoes the insertion of a temporary indwelling bladder catheter. CPT code 51703 should be used to report this procedure.
8. In a challenging case, a patient with altered anatomy requires the insertion of a temporary indwelling bladder catheter due to a fractured balloon. CPT code 51703 is the appropriate code for this procedure.
9. A patient with a fractured catheter and altered anatomy undergoes the insertion of a temporary indwelling bladder catheter. CPT code 51703 should be reported for this complicated procedure.
10. In a complicated case, a patient with a fractured balloon and altered anatomy requires the insertion of a temporary indwelling bladder catheter. CPT code 51703 is the correct code to use in this scenario.