How To Use CPT Code 52270

CPT 52270 describes a specific procedure involving cystourethroscopy and internal urethrotomy in female patients. This article will cover the official description, procedure details, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 52270?

CPT 52270 is a code used to describe a procedure called cystourethroscopy with internal urethrotomy in female patients. This procedure involves the use of a cystoscope, a lighted tubular instrument, to inspect the female urethra, the interior of the bladder, and the ureteric openings. The provider then performs an incision in the internal urethra to treat a narrowed area known as a stricture.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 52270 is: ‘Cystourethroscopy, with internal urethrotomy; female.’

3. Procedure

1. The female patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. The provider inserts a cystoscope into the urethra and slowly advances it into the bladder.
3. The provider examines the urethra and injects sterile saline water into the bladder to improve the view of the bladder wall.
4. To treat the internal urethral stricture, the provider inserts a dilator into the urethra and expands it to open up the narrowed area.
5. The provider then inserts a specially designed cutting instrument and incises the strictured area down to healthy tissues.
6. After emptying the bladder and irrigating the urethra, the provider removes the instruments and scope.
7. A temporary catheter is inserted through the urethra and into the bladder to allow the incised area in the urethra to heal.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 52270 is performed on female patients who have a narrowed area (stricture) in the internal urethra that requires treatment. This condition can be caused by injury or infection to the urethra. The procedure is typically performed by a provider who is experienced in cystourethroscopy and internal urethrotomy.

5. When to use CPT code 52270

CPT code 52270 should be used when performing cystourethroscopy with internal urethrotomy in female patients. It is important to note that this code is specific to female patients only. For the same procedure performed on a male patient, a different code, such as CPT 52275, should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 52270, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s gender
• Procedure performed (cystourethroscopy with internal urethrotomy)
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the procedure, including any complications or additional steps taken
• Any relevant findings or observations during the procedure
• Any post-procedure care instructions or recommendations
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 52270, ensure that the procedure is performed on a female patient. It is important to use the correct code for the specific gender. Additionally, consider any specific guidelines or requirements from the payer when submitting the claim.

8. Historical information

CPT 52270 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A female patient undergoes cystourethroscopy with internal urethrotomy to treat a narrowed area in her urethra.
2. A provider performs cystourethroscopy with internal urethrotomy on a female patient who has been experiencing recurrent urinary tract infections.
3. A female patient with a history of urethral strictures undergoes cystourethroscopy with internal urethrotomy to alleviate her symptoms.
4. A provider performs cystourethroscopy with internal urethrotomy on a female patient who has difficulty urinating due to a narrowed urethra.
5. A female patient undergoes cystourethroscopy with internal urethrotomy as part of her treatment for bladder cancer.
6. A provider performs cystourethroscopy with internal urethrotomy on a female patient who has been experiencing urinary incontinence.
7. A female patient with a history of urethral strictures undergoes cystourethroscopy with internal urethrotomy to improve her urinary flow.
8. A provider performs cystourethroscopy with internal urethrotomy on a female patient who has been experiencing pain during urination.
9. A female patient undergoes cystourethroscopy with internal urethrotomy to remove a urethral stricture that has been causing recurrent urinary retention.
10. A provider performs cystourethroscopy with internal urethrotomy on a female patient who has been experiencing frequent urinary urgency and frequency.