In simple words: This code describes a kidney surgery where a surgeon uses extreme cold to freeze and destroy cancerous or abnormal tissue.The surgeon makes an incision, uses a special probe, and guides the procedure using ultrasound.

This CPT code, 50250, represents the open surgical procedure of cryosurgical ablation for one or more renal mass lesions.The procedure involves the use of cryosurgery (extreme cold) to destroy the target tissue. Intraoperative ultrasound guidance and monitoring are included in the code.This is an open procedure, meaning it requires an incision.Note that laparoscopic ablation of renal mass lesions is coded differently (50542), and percutaneous ablation is coded with 50592 or 50593.

Example 1: A 60-year-old male patient presents with a suspicious renal mass detected on CT scan.After biopsy confirmation of renal cell carcinoma, the patient undergoes open cryosurgical ablation (50250) to remove the tumor., A 55-year-old female patient is diagnosed with multiple small renal cell carcinomas.Due to the location and size of the lesions, the surgeon performs an open cryosurgical ablation (50250)., A 70-year-old patient with a large renal cyst causing significant pain and discomfort undergoes an open surgical procedure.The surgeon performs an open cryosurgical ablation (50250) of the cyst.

* Preoperative imaging studies (CT scan, MRI) showing the location and size of the renal mass.* Pathology report confirming the diagnosis.* Operative report detailing the procedure, including the number of lesions treated and the use of ultrasound guidance.* Postoperative imaging studies to assess the effectiveness of the ablation.* Documentation of the patient's medical necessity for this procedure.

** Always confirm the appropriate code selection based on the specific clinical circumstances.Refer to the latest CPT manual and other relevant coding guidelines for detailed information and updates.