How To Use CPT Code 51710

CPT 51710 describes the procedure for changing a cystostomy tube in a patient. 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 51710?

CPT 51710 can be used to describe the procedure performed by a healthcare provider to remove and replace a cystostomy tube in a patient. This code is used when the procedure is complicated due to factors such as infection, inflammation, bleeding, or narrowing or dilation of the passage.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 51710 is: ‘Change of cystostomy tube; complicated.’ If imaging guidance is performed during the procedure, CPT code 75984 should be used.

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider prepares the patient and the incision site, ensuring that the patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. The provider cleans the site with an antibiotic solution and reopens the incision site.
3. A guidewire is introduced and used to remove the existing cystostomy tube.
4. The site is thoroughly irrigated to ensure cleanliness.
5. A new cystostomy tube is inserted over the guidewire.
6. The guidewire is removed, and the new tube is sutured to the skin.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 51710 is used when the procedure is complicated due to factors such as infection, inflammation, bleeding, or narrowing or dilation of the passage. It is important to note that this code should not be used for simple removal and replacement of a cystostomy tube without any complications.

5. When to use CPT code 51710

CPT code 51710 should be used when the healthcare provider performs a complicated change of a cystostomy tube. It should not be used for simple removal and replacement of the tube without any complications.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 51710, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• The reason for the procedure, such as infection, inflammation, bleeding, or narrowing or dilation of the passage
• Details of the procedure, including the use of a guidewire and irrigation of the site
• Date and time of the procedure
• Any complications encountered during the procedure
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 51710, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for a complicated change of a cystostomy tube. It is important to use the appropriate code based on the complexity of the procedure. If imaging guidance is performed during the procedure, CPT code 75984 should also be reported. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT 51710 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A urologist performs a complicated change of a cystostomy tube in a patient with a history of recurrent infections.
2. A general surgeon replaces a cystostomy tube in a patient with inflammation at the site of the tube.
3. An interventional radiologist performs a complicated change of a cystostomy tube in a patient with bleeding complications.
4. A urologist performs a complicated change of a cystostomy tube in a patient with narrowing of the passage.
5. A general surgeon replaces a cystostomy tube in a patient with dilation of the passage.
6. An interventional radiologist performs a complicated change of a cystostomy tube in a patient with infection at the site of the tube.
7. A urologist replaces a cystostomy tube in a patient with inflammation and bleeding complications.
8. A general surgeon performs a complicated change of a cystostomy tube in a patient with narrowing and dilation of the passage.
9. An interventional radiologist replaces a cystostomy tube in a patient with infection and inflammation at the site of the tube.
10. A urologist performs a complicated change of a cystostomy tube in a patient with bleeding and narrowing of the passage.