In simple words: The doctor uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera (cystoscope) to examine the bladder and urethra.If a narrowing (stricture) is found at the junction of the ureter and kidney, the doctor uses a balloon, laser, heat, or small cutting instrument to widen the passage.

This CPT code encompasses cystourethroscopic examination of the bladder, urethra, prostatic urethra, and ureteral orifices.It further includes treatment of a ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) stricture using techniques such as balloon dilation, laser ablation, electrocautery, or surgical incision. The procedure involves inserting a cystoscope through the urethra into the bladder, advancing it into the ureters to the UPJ, and then employing the chosen method to treat the stricture.

Example 1: A 60-year-old male presents with hydronephrosis due to a UPJ obstruction.Cystourethroscopy with balloon dilation of the UPJ stricture is performed., A 45-year-old female with recurrent UTIs and imaging showing a UPJ stricture undergoes cystourethroscopy with laser ablation of the stricture., A 32-year-old male with a history of ureteropelvic junction obstruction resulting in renal colic undergoes cystourethroscopy with incision of the stricture.

Pre-operative imaging (e.g., KUB, CT urogram, IVP) demonstrating the UPJ stricture. Intra-operative findings documenting the stricture's location, size, and treatment method.Post-operative imaging (e.g., KUB) to confirm patency.Operative report detailing the procedure, including the type of instrument used and the outcome.Consent form.

** The choice of treatment modality (balloon dilation, laser, electrocautery, incision) will depend on the individual characteristics of the stricture and surgeon preference.