2025 CPT code 52344
(unknown) Effective Date: N/A Surgery - Surgical Procedures on the Urinary System Surgery Feed
Cystourethroscopy with ureteroscopy and treatment of ureteral stricture (e.g., balloon dilation, laser, electrocautery, incision).
Modifiers may be applicable. Modifier 51 (Multiple Procedures) would be used if other distinct procedures are performed during the same operative session. Modifier 50 (Bilateral Procedure) should be appended if the procedure is performed on both ureters.
Medical necessity for this procedure must be supported by documentation of the ureteral stricture and associated symptoms such as recurrent urinary tract infections, hydronephrosis, pain, or difficulty urinating.The medical record should demonstrate that less invasive treatment options have been considered or tried unsuccessfully.
The physician performs the procedure with the patient under appropriate anesthesia.A cystoscope is inserted into the urethra and advanced into the bladder. The bladder is examined, and then a catheter is advanced into a ureteral orifice. Once a stricture is identified, a guidewire is passed through the scope and catheter to the stricture site. A balloon catheter, laser, electrocautery, or cutting device is then used to open the stricture. A ureteroscope is used to visualize the ureters and treat any additional strictures or stones. A temporary catheter or stent may be placed to keep the ureter open.Instruments and scope are removed after the procedure.
In simple words: The doctor examines your bladder and the tube that carries urine out of your body (urethra) using a small camera.They then insert a smaller tube with a camera into the tubes that connect your kidneys to your bladder (ureters) and treat a narrowing in one of those tubes.This could involve inflating a tiny balloon, using a laser, or making a small cut.
This code describes a procedure where a cystourethroscopy (examination of the bladder and urethra) is performed along with a ureteroscopy (examination of the ureters). During the procedure, the physician treats a ureteral stricture using one of several methods such as balloon dilation, laser, electrocautery, or incision.A ureteroscope is used for visualization of the ureters.
Example 1: A patient presents with recurrent urinary tract infections and flank pain. Imaging reveals a ureteral stricture. The physician performs a cystourethroscopy with ureteroscopy and balloon dilation of the ureteral stricture., A patient with a history of kidney stones presents with hydronephrosis. A ureteral stricture is identified as the cause.Cystourethroscopy with ureteroscopy and laser incision of the ureteral stricture is performed. , A patient experiences difficulty urinating and pain.A ureteral stricture is found during examination. The physician performs cystourethroscopy with ureteroscopy and electrocautery of the ureteral stricture.
Documentation should include details of the cystourethroscopy and ureteroscopy findings, the method used to treat the ureteral stricture (balloon dilation, laser, electrocautery, or incision), the size and location of the stricture, placement of any stents or catheters, and any complications encountered.
- Revenue Code: P8E
- Specialties:Urology
- Place of Service:Ambulatory Surgical Center, Hospital - Inpatient, Hospital - Outpatient