50045 Nephrotomy with exploration
Also known as: nephrotomy with exploration, kidney exploration, renal exploration
Nephrotomy (kidney incision) with exploration of kidney parenchyma for calculus, mass, or other pathology.
In Plain Language
surgical incision and exploration of kidney; opening kidney to examine tissue
Clinical Context
Surgical incision and exploration of kidney parenchyma to evaluate for stone, mass, or other pathology. Used when diagnostic imaging is inconclusive.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 16.40 |
| Total RVU | 16.40 |
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 16.40, this code ranks in the 76th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.1x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 50045?
CPT 50045 (Nephrotomy with exploration) is a Surgery code. Nephrotomy (kidney incision) with exploration of kidney parenchyma for calculus, mass, or other pathology.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 50045?
The work RVU for CPT 50045 is 16.40. This code is primarily used by Urology, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 50045 used?
Surgical incision and exploration of kidney parenchyma to evaluate for stone, mass, or other pathology. Used when diagnostic imaging is inconclusive.
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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.