50396 Measure kidney pressure
Also known as: Whitaker test, pressure flow study, renal pressure measurement
Measurement and recording of renal pelvic pressure (Whitaker test) through a percutaneous catheter to assess degree of obstruction.
In Plain Language
test to measure kidney pressure and blockage; kidney function pressure test
Clinical Context
Used to differentiate obstructive from non-obstructive hydronephrosis when imaging is equivocal. Helps guide treatment decisions.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.04 |
| Total RVU | 2.04 |
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 2.04, this code ranks in the 14th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.9x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 50396?
CPT 50396 (Measure kidney pressure) is a Surgery code. Measurement and recording of renal pelvic pressure (Whitaker test) through a percutaneous catheter to assess degree of obstruction.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 50396?
The work RVU for CPT 50396 is 2.04. This code is primarily used by Urology, Interventional Radiology.
When is CPT 50396 used?
Used to differentiate obstructive from non-obstructive hydronephrosis when imaging is equivocal. Helps guide treatment decisions.
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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.