Urology Coding Alert

Question: How should we code TURBT (transurethral resection of bladder tumor) when there are multiple bladder tumors of various sizes? Should we use the CPT code for the largest, or should we add the sizes together?

Nebraska Subscriber

Answer: For Medicare patients, when selecting a code for cystourethroscopy with fulguration and/or resection of bladder tumor(s) from the range CPT 52234 through 52240, the code representing the largest tumor treated should be selected. Because the CPT code descriptions include the word tumor(s) each code in this range includes treatment of one or more tumors. For private payers, however, you should use a different method. Add up the sizes of all of the tumors, and charge the total volume.