50010 Renal exploration
Also known as: renal exploration, kidney exploration, nephrectomy exploration
Surgical exploration of kidney and renal hilum via open incision for diagnostic purposes.
In Plain Language
surgical inspection of kidney; surgical examination of kidney and blood vessels
Clinical Context
Open surgical exploration of kidney and renal hilum to evaluate for stone disease, mass, infection, or vascular abnormality.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 11.97 |
| Total RVU | 11.97 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. This code has a 90-day global period, which includes the day of the procedure, 1 day preoperative, and 90 days of postoperative care. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 11.97, this code ranks in the 65th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.5x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 50010?
CPT 50010 (Renal exploration) is a Surgery code. Surgical exploration of kidney and renal hilum via open incision for diagnostic purposes.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 50010?
The work RVU for CPT 50010 is 11.97. This code is primarily used by Urology, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 50010 used?
Open surgical exploration of kidney and renal hilum to evaluate for stone disease, mass, infection, or vascular abnormality.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.