Urology Coding Alert

You Be the Coder:

Cysto for Stone Localization

Question: Our urologist performed a cystoscopy with a retrograde pyelogram to localize a stone for ESWL. Would it be appropriate to separately report the cystoscopy and retrograde pyelography when they were only performed for localization of the stone prior to the ESWL?


Mississippi Subscriber


Answer: Yes, you should report the cystoscopy and retrograde pyelography separately. First, report 50590 (Lithotripsy, extracorporeal shock wave) for the ESWL, since this is the more extensive procedure.

Next, report CPT 52005 -59 (Cystourethroscopy, with ureteral catheterization, with or without irrigation, instillation or ureteropyelography, exclusive of radiologic service; distinct procedural service) for the retrograde study to identify the stone. Add modifier 59 to unbundle 52005 from the ESWL. Because this is an independent procedure - certainly not performed each time an ESWL is performed - you may also code for it in this case.

Also, report 74420-26 (Urography, retrograde, with or without KUB; professional component) if the urologist read the x-rays and documented the radiological findings in the report.

Other Articles in this issue of

Urology Coding Alert

View All