50225 Removal kidney open complex
Also known as: complex open nephrectomy, difficult nephrectomy, extended nephrectomy
Open surgical removal of the kidney (nephrectomy) through an incision for complex cases requiring extended dissection.
In Plain Language
surgical removal of complicated kidney; complex kidney removal surgery
Clinical Context
Used for complicated renal pathology including large tumors, significant inflammation, prior surgery, or extensive adjacent organ involvement.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 21.33 |
| Total RVU | 21.33 |
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 21.33, this code ranks in the 84th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.7x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 50225?
CPT 50225 (Removal kidney open complex) is a Surgery code. Open surgical removal of the kidney (nephrectomy) through an incision for complex cases requiring extended dissection.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 50225?
The work RVU for CPT 50225 is 21.33. This code is primarily used by Urology, General Surgery, Oncology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 50225 used?
Used for complicated renal pathology including large tumors, significant inflammation, prior surgery, or extensive adjacent organ involvement.
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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.