How To Use CPT Code 58520

CPT 58520 describes the repair of a ruptured uterus (nonobstetrical) through a procedure known as hysterorrhaphy. 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 58520?

CPT 58520 is used to describe the repair of a ruptured uterus (nonobstetrical) through a procedure called hysterorrhaphy. This code is used when a provider sutures a ruptured or lacerated uterus that is not related to childbirth. The rupture or laceration may occur during surgical procedures such as dilation and curettage (D&C) or hysteroscopy, or it may be the result of an accident or injury.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 58520 is: ‘Hysterorrhaphy, repair of ruptured uterus (nonobstetrical).’ This procedure involves suturing the ruptured or lacerated uterus to repair the damage.

3. Procedure

1. The patient is placed in the supine position and administered general anesthesia.
2. The provider makes an incision in the abdomen to expose the ruptured or lacerated uterus.
3. The provider identifies the site and extent of the injury and sutures the uterus in layers.
4. If necessary, the provider may remove tissue and repair the edges of the torn uterine wall.
5. Bleeding vessels are tied off using sutures to control bleeding.
6. Once all suturing is complete, the provider closes the abdominal incision.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 58520 is performed when a patient has a ruptured or lacerated uterus that is not related to childbirth. This may occur during surgical procedures such as D&C or hysteroscopy, or due to accidents or injuries. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia.

5. When to use CPT code 58520

CPT code 58520 should be used when a provider performs a hysterorrhaphy to repair a ruptured or lacerated uterus that is not related to childbirth. It should not be used for repairs related to obstetrical procedures.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 58520, the provider must document the following information:

• The diagnosis indicating the need for hysterorrhaphy
• Details of the procedure, including the site and extent of the injury
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Any additional procedures performed, such as removal of tissue or repair of the uterine wall
• Any complications or unexpected findings during the procedure
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 58520, ensure that the procedure performed is a repair of a ruptured uterus (nonobstetrical) through hysterorrhaphy. It is important to use the correct diagnosis code to support the medical necessity of the procedure. CPT code 58520 should not be reported with other codes unless additional procedures were performed during the same session.

8. Historical information

CPT code 58520 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code has not undergone any updates since its addition. In 2017, it was added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare billing purposes.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes a hysteroscopy procedure and experiences a ruptured uterus. The provider performs a hysterorrhaphy to repair the rupture.
2. During a D&C procedure, the provider accidentally punctures the uterus, resulting in a laceration. The provider performs a hysterorrhaphy to repair the laceration.
3. A patient sustains a traumatic injury to the abdomen, causing a ruptured uterus. The provider performs a hysterorrhaphy to repair the rupture.
4. Following a previous surgery, the patient develops a uterine rupture. The provider performs a hysterorrhaphy to repair the rupture.
5. A patient presents with a lacerated uterus due to a motor vehicle accident. The provider performs a hysterorrhaphy to repair the laceration.
6. During a hysteroscopic procedure, the provider accidentally tears the uterus. The provider performs a hysterorrhaphy to repair the tear.
7. A patient undergoes a D&C procedure and experiences a ruptured uterus. The provider performs a hysterorrhaphy to repair the rupture.
8. Following a traumatic injury, the patient’s uterus becomes lacerated. The provider performs a hysterorrhaphy to repair the laceration.
9. A patient sustains a uterine rupture during a previous surgery. The provider performs a hysterorrhaphy to repair the rupture.
10. During a motor vehicle accident, the patient’s uterus becomes lacerated. The provider performs a hysterorrhaphy to repair the laceration.