Urology Coding Alert

WIT, TUMT, TUNA and Indigo laser treatments for benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) are four alternative therapies that you shouldn't be coding with the same method you use for TURP.

"While historically TURPhas been the standard for treatment of symptomatic BPH, the advent of these new, less invasive approaches to BPH gives the urologist a range of alternative treatments and gives the urology coder a range of alternative codes," says Morgan Hause, CCS, CCS-P, privacy and compliance officer for Urology of Indiana LLC in Indianapolis.

The more commonly used TURP alternatives are represented in the following codes: CPT 52647 (Non-contact laser coagulation of prostate, including control of postoperative bleeding, complete [vasectomy, meatotomy, cystourethroscopy, urethral calibration and/or dilation, and internal urethrotomy are included]), 53850 (Transurethral destruction of prostate tissue; by microwave thermotherapy), 53852 ( by radiofrequency thermotherapy) and 53853 ( by water-induced thermotherapy).

Don't let the abbreviations throw you off. Use this chart of TURP-alternative treatments to ease your coding qualms.

"It is always a good idea, particularly with new technology, to check with your payers concerning their requirements and reimbursement," Hause advises. "While Medicare allows for increased reimbursement for these services when provided in a physician's office setting, other payers might not allow for a site-of-service differentiation in payment and should be approached separately." He recommends consulting the vendors for these products and services for advice and assistance in approaching other payers for appropriate fees and site-of-service payment.