50125 Pyelotomy with drainage pyelostomy
Also known as: pyelotomy with drainage, pyelostomy, open drainage
Pyelotomy (incision into the renal pelvis) with placement of drainage and pyelostomy (creation of an opening from the renal pelvis to the skin).
In Plain Language
surgical opening of kidney with drainage tube; creation of kidney drainage opening
Clinical Context
Used when internal drainage is insufficient and external drainage is needed, such as in infected obstructed systems or when delayed definitive repair is necessary.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 17.37 |
| Total RVU | 17.37 |
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 17.37, this code ranks in the 78th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 50125?
CPT 50125 (Pyelotomy with drainage pyelostomy) is a Surgery code. Pyelotomy (incision into the renal pelvis) with placement of drainage and pyelostomy (creation of an opening from the renal pelvis to the skin).
What is the wRVU value for CPT 50125?
The work RVU for CPT 50125 is 17.37. This code is primarily used by Urology, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 50125 used?
Used when internal drainage is insufficient and external drainage is needed, such as in infected obstructed systems or when delayed definitive repair is necessary.
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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.