50433 Plmt nephroureteral catheter
Also known as: nephroureteral stent placement, double J stent, combined drainage
Percutaneous placement of a nephroureteral catheter (combined kidney and ureter drainage tube) under radiologic guidance.
In Plain Language
placement of kidney and ureter drainage tube through skin; dual drainage tube placement
Clinical Context
Used when both internal and external drainage is needed, such as complex obstruction with planned endoscopic management.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.92 |
| Total RVU | 4.92 |
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 4.92, this code ranks in the 33rd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.6x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 50433?
CPT 50433 (Plmt nephroureteral catheter) is a Surgery code. Percutaneous placement of a nephroureteral catheter (combined kidney and ureter drainage tube) under radiologic guidance.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 50433?
The work RVU for CPT 50433 is 4.92. This code is primarily used by Urology, Interventional Radiology.
When is CPT 50433 used?
Used when both internal and external drainage is needed, such as complex obstruction with planned endoscopic management.
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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.