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Urology Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Bilateral Ureteral Reimplantation

Published on Sat Jun 01, 2002

Question: Are there separate codes for extra- and intravesical ureteral reimplantation? How should we code if the procedure is performed on both sides? And does it matter if different techniques are used on each side? Colorado Subscriber Answer: No, separate codes for extra- or intravesical ureteral implantation do not exist. Code 50780 (Uretero-neocystostomy; anastomosis of single ureter to bladder) can be used for both techniques. For Medicare carriers, if ureteroneocystostomy is performed bilaterally, regardless of technique, report 50780 appended with modifier -50 (Bilateral procedure). For most commercial carriers, you should use 50780 appended with -LT (Left side) and -RT (Right side) and modifier -50 on the second procedure: 50780-LT and 50780-RT-50.  
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