50200 Renal biopsy percutaneous
Also known as: percutaneous renal biopsy, needle biopsy, image-guided kidney biopsy
Renal biopsy performed percutaneously (through the skin) using a needle, typically for tissue diagnosis of kidney disease.
In Plain Language
kidney tissue sample through needle; minimally invasive kidney biopsy
Clinical Context
Used for histopathologic diagnosis of renal parenchymal disease including glomerulonephritis, interstitial nephritis, and infiltrative diseases. Often performed under ultrasound or CT guidance.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.32 |
| Total RVU | 2.32 |
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 0-day global period, meaning pre- and post-operative E&M visits are billable separately on the same day. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 2.32, this code ranks in the 16th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.4x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 50200?
CPT 50200 (Renal biopsy percutaneous) is a Surgery code. Renal biopsy performed percutaneously (through the skin) using a needle, typically for tissue diagnosis of kidney disease.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 50200?
The work RVU for CPT 50200 is 2.32. This code is primarily used by Nephrology, Urology, Interventional Radiology.
When is CPT 50200 used?
Used for histopathologic diagnosis of renal parenchymal disease including glomerulonephritis, interstitial nephritis, and infiltrative diseases. Often performed under ultrasound or CT guidance.
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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.