50432 Plmt nephrostomy catheter
Also known as: percutaneous nephrostomy, PCN placement, kidney tube placement
Percutaneous placement of a nephrostomy catheter (external drainage tube) under radiologic guidance for drainage of the kidney.
In Plain Language
placement of kidney drainage tube through skin; percutaneous kidney drainage
Clinical Context
Used for obstructed hydronephrosis, infected kidneys, or as temporary or definitive drainage. Often first step in endoscopic stone removal.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.90 |
| Total RVU | 3.90 |
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 3.90, this code ranks in the 27th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.1x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 50432?
CPT 50432 (Plmt nephrostomy catheter) is a Surgery code. Percutaneous placement of a nephrostomy catheter (external drainage tube) under radiologic guidance for drainage of the kidney.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 50432?
The work RVU for CPT 50432 is 3.90. This code is primarily used by Urology, Interventional Radiology.
When is CPT 50432 used?
Used for obstructed hydronephrosis, infected kidneys, or as temporary or definitive drainage. Often first step in endoscopic stone removal.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against MGMA data — all in one app.
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.