Urology Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Code Retrograde Urography With 74420 and 52005

Question: How should I code an encounter that included cystoscopy, bilateral retrogrades, and bimanual rectal/pelvic exam under anesthesia? I also documented my interpretation of the x-ray films in the medical records.

Ohio Subscriber

Answer: Report the encounter as follows:

  • 52005 (Cystourethroscopy, with ureteral catheter­ization, with or without irrigation, instillation, or ureteropyelography, exclusive of radiologic service)
  • 74420 (Urography, retrograde, with or without KUB)
  • Append modifier 26 (Professional component) to 74420 if the urologist performed the procedure in a facility.

The work associated with a pelvic exam is included in the procedure so is not billed separately.

What happens: This procedure also is known as a retrograde pyelography. The urologist inserts the radiopaque contrast material through a catheter so that it enters antegrade, against the normal flow of urine into the kidney and ureters. The provider usually performs this procedure to investigate any upper urinary tract obstruction or pathology. 


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