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Urology Coding Alert

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Nephrostomy Tube Removal

Published on Tue Jun 21, 2005

Question: Is there a code for removal of nephrostomy tubes by a surgeon other than the one who placed them? I only found code 50398 for changing the tubes.


New Mexico Subscriber


Answer: Include the procedure in the charge for the E/M visit, such as 9921x. There is no CPT Code for removing a nephrostomy tube, just as there is no CPT code for the simple removal of a Foley catheter. Use CPT Code 50398 (Change of nephrostomy or pyelostomy tube) only if you change or exchange a nephrostomy tube.
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