How To Use CPT Code 51999

CPT 51999 describes a laparoscopy procedure on the bladder that does not have a specific code. This article will cover the description, official details, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 51999?

CPT 51999 is used to report laparoscopy procedures on the bladder that do not have a specific code. This code is used when there is no other existing code that accurately represents the laparoscopy procedure performed on the bladder.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 51999 is: ‘Unlisted laparoscopy procedure, bladder.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider performs a laparoscopy procedure on the bladder using minimally invasive techniques.
2. The specific details of the procedure may vary depending on the patient’s condition and the reason for the laparoscopy.
3. The provider uses specialized instruments and a laparoscope to visualize and access the bladder.
4. The procedure may involve diagnostic or therapeutic interventions, such as biopsies, removal of bladder stones, or treatment of bladder conditions.
5. The provider completes the laparoscopy procedure and ensures the patient’s safety and well-being.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 51999 is used when there is no specific code available to accurately describe the laparoscopy procedure performed on the bladder. It is important to note that this code should only be used when there is no other appropriate code that represents the procedure.

5. When to use CPT code 51999

CPT code 51999 should be used when a laparoscopy procedure is performed on the bladder, and there is no specific code available to accurately describe the procedure. It is essential to ensure that there is no other existing code that can adequately represent the laparoscopy procedure performed on the bladder before using CPT 51999.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 51999, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• A detailed description of the laparoscopy procedure performed on the bladder
• The reason for performing the procedure
• The specific instruments and techniques used during the procedure
• Any additional procedures or interventions performed during the laparoscopy
• Operative notes or other relevant documentation to support the claim

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 51999, it is crucial to provide a cover letter explaining the reason for choosing the unlisted code instead of a defined, active code. Include one or more similar codes and compare the service to those codes to justify the claim amount. Additionally, include the operative notes or other relevant documentation to strengthen the claim and avoid possible denials. Payers will consider claims with unlisted procedure codes on a case-by-case basis and determine payment based on the documentation provided.

8. Historical information

CPT 51999 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2006. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A urologist performs a laparoscopy procedure on the bladder to remove bladder stones.
2. A gynecologist performs a laparoscopy procedure on the bladder to diagnose and treat endometriosis.
3. A general surgeon performs a laparoscopy procedure on the bladder to perform a biopsy for further evaluation of a suspicious mass.
4. An oncologist performs a laparoscopy procedure on the bladder to assess the extent of bladder cancer.
5. A pediatric surgeon performs a laparoscopy procedure on the bladder to repair a congenital abnormality.
6. A urogynecologist performs a laparoscopy procedure on the bladder to treat urinary incontinence.
7. A transplant surgeon performs a laparoscopy procedure on the bladder to assess the viability of a transplanted organ.
8. An interventional radiologist performs a laparoscopy procedure on the bladder to place a stent for urinary obstruction.
9. A colorectal surgeon performs a laparoscopy procedure on the bladder to address complications following colorectal surgery.
10. A urologic oncologist performs a laparoscopy procedure on the bladder to perform a radical cystectomy for bladder cancer.