2025 CPT code 53850
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Surgery - Surgical Procedures on the Urinary System Surgery Feed
Microwave thermotherapy for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
Modifiers may apply depending on the circumstances of the procedure (e.g., 22 for increased procedural services, 51 for multiple procedures). Consult the CPT manual for specific guidance.
Microwave thermotherapy is medically necessary for the treatment of BPH symptoms that significantly impact the patient's quality of life and have not responded adequately to conservative management. The procedure is an alternative to other surgical interventions.
A physician performs the procedure, inserting an endoscope and microwave antenna to apply heat to the prostate. Electrocoagulation may be used to stop bleeding, and a urinary catheter is placed post-procedure.
In simple words: This procedure uses heat to shrink an enlarged prostate gland. A thin tube with a heating element is inserted, and heat is applied to the prostate to reduce its size, relieving urinary problems.
Microwave thermotherapy is a procedure involving the use of microwave energy to destroy abnormal tissue in the prostate gland, specifically treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).An endoscope is inserted through the urethra, guiding a microwave antenna to the prostate.Microwave energy, exceeding 44.5°C, is applied to reduce enlarged prostatic tissue while protecting the urethra. Electrocoagulation may be used to control bleeding. A urinary catheter is typically placed post-procedure to facilitate urine drainage until the patient recovers.
Example 1: A 65-year-old male presents with symptoms of BPH, including urinary frequency, urgency, and nocturia.Microwave thermotherapy is performed to alleviate these symptoms., A 72-year-old male with moderate BPH who is not a candidate for other treatments (e.g., TURP) due to medical conditions undergoes microwave thermotherapy., A 78-year-old male with severe BPH experiencing urinary retention undergoes microwave thermotherapy as a minimally invasive alternative to open surgery.
Pre-operative assessment including patient history, physical examination, urinalysis, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level, and uroflowmetry. Intra-operative documentation including the type of microwave antenna used, temperature readings, and any complications encountered. Post-operative documentation including catheter removal time, pain management, and follow-up appointments.
** This procedure is considered a minimally invasive alternative to other BPH treatments.Patient selection is crucial, and the procedure's effectiveness can vary.
- Revenue Code: P1G (MAJOR PROCEDURE - OTHER)
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Urology
- Place of Service:Ambulatory Surgical Center, Hospital Outpatient