Urology Coding Alert

Question: How would I report a robotic-assisted exploration and drainage of a vesicouterine cyst?

Ohio Subscriber

Answer: You should report 49322 (Laparoscopy, surgical; with aspiration of cavity or cyst [eg, ovarian cyst] [single or multiple]). Use diagnosis code 568.89 (Other specified disorders of peritoneum; cyst) for the peritoneal cyst.

You may be tempted to also report S2900 (Surgical techniques requiring use of robotic surgical systems [list separately in addition to code for primary procedure]) for the robotic assistance. Use of the robot during surgery is not a separate procedure, but rather it is the use of a specific surgical tool by the surgeon, who is already being paid for the laparoscopic approach. Use of the robot is not a non-covered service, it is an inclusive service. You will need to check with your payers with regard to charging your patient for things that are considered inclusive of the surgical technique for which you have been paid.

Medicare will not reimburse for S codes. But some private payers may reimburse the physician for this code indicating use of robotic technology. Check to see what your payer’s policy is before billing S2900.