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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. 
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