2025 CPT code 50593
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Surgery - Surgical Procedures on the Urinary System Feed
Percutaneous cryoablation of one or more renal tumor(s) on one kidney.
Modifiers such as 50 (bilateral procedure), 73 (discontinued procedure prior to anesthesia), 74 (discontinued procedure after anesthesia) may be applicable.
Medical necessity for cryoablation should be supported by documentation of the diagnosis of the renal mass, its size and characteristics, and the rationale for choosing cryoablation over other treatment options.
In simple words: The doctor freezes and destroys one or more small kidney tumors through a small needle inserted through the skin.This is done using imaging like ultrasound or CT scans to guide the needle and ensure accuracy.
This code describes a minimally invasive procedure where one or more renal masses in a single kidney are ablated using cryotherapy (extreme cold) delivered through a percutaneous needle.The procedure typically involves image guidance (ultrasound, CT, or MRI) to locate the tumor(s) and monitor the freezing process. Multiple freeze-thaw cycles may be necessary for complete destruction of the targeted tissue.
Example 1: A patient with a single, small renal mass in the left kidney undergoes percutaneous cryoablation under CT guidance., A patient with two small renal masses in the right kidney undergoes percutaneous cryoablation using ultrasound guidance. Modifier 50 would be appended to 50593., A patient presents for percutaneous cryoablation of a renal tumor, but the procedure is discontinued after the administration of anesthesia due to a sudden drop in blood pressure. Modifier 74 would be appended.
Documentation should include details of the tumor size, location, and number, method of imaging guidance used, number of freeze-thaw cycles, and any complications encountered.Operative reports and imaging studies should be maintained.
- RVU: RVU values vary based on location and other factors. Consult the Physician Fee Schedule for current RVUs.
- Specialties:Urology, Interventional Radiology
- Place of Service:Ambulatory Surgical Center, Hospital Outpatient, Inpatient Hospital (if medically necessary)