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Urology Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Review Retrograde Urethrogram Coding Requirements

Published on Sun Jan 16, 2011

Question: I have run into some notes that state that the physician performed a retrograde urethrogram with fluoroscopic interpretation.  I have seen where some coders automatically bill code 51610 with 74450 and some only code 51610 since the fluoroscopy would bundle into the code.  What is the correct way to report this procedure? Also, if the physician only mentions findings in the note but doesn't state that he interpreted, can we bill for the interpretation along with the procedure? Missouri SubscriberAnswer: You are correct that 51610 (Injection procedure for retrograde urethrocystography) is the proper code for the procedure of injection of contrast material into the urethral meatus in a retrograde fashion to delineate the whole urethra and bladder radiologically. You should report the interpretation of this study -- reading the X-ray films -- using 74450 (Urethrocystography, retrograde, radiological supervision and interpretation).If urologist reads the films of this study, he may bill for [...]
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