Search Search
Advanced Search

Urology Coding Alert

Reader Questions:

Know When to Avoid 50 With Bilateral Codes

Published on Sat Jul 01, 2006

Question: How should I report a cystoscopic  bilateral ureteral wash?

New Jersey Subscriber Answer: You should report 52005 (Cystourethroscopy, with ureteral catheterization, with or without irrigation, instillation or ureteropyelography, exclusive of radiologic service) for a ureteral wash. This procedure is inherently bilateral. Therefore, you do not need to append modifier 50 (Bilateral procedure) in this case.
 
Note: This policy certainly holds true for Medicare. Some private carriers suggest coding for both sides using the following coding: 52005-LT (Left side) and 52005-RT-50 (Right side). Check with your private carriers for their particular policy for bilateral procedures. 
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in Revenue Cycle Insider
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more

Other Articles in this issue of

Urology Coding Alert

View All

Which Codify by AAPC tool is right for you?

Call 844-334-2816 to speak with a Codify by AAPC specialist now.