Urology Coding Alert

Question: Which code should I report for ureteroscopic endopyelotomy? I am debating between 50575 (Renal endoscopy through nephrotomy or pyelotomy, with or without irrigation, instil­lation, or ureteropyelography, exclusive of radiologic service; with endopyelotomy (includes cystoscopy, ureteroscopy, dilation of ureter and ureteral pelvic junction, incision of ureteral pelvic junction and insertion of endopyelotomy stent)) and 52345 (Cystourethroscopy with ureteroscopy; with treatment of ureteropelvic junction stricture (eg, balloon dilation, laser, electrocautery, and incision)).

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Answer: Since your urologist performed the complete procedure via ureteroscopy, you should report code 52345.

Don’t miss: During a 52345 procedure, the provider performs a cystourethroscopy, which is the inspection of the interior of the bladder, the urethra, prostatic urethra, and ureteric openings. Your provider will use a cystoscope passed through the urethra and into the bladder. The urologist will also pass a ureteroscope up to the ureteropelvic junction (UPJ), where they will choose from various methods to treat a UPJ stricture.