50435 Exchange nephrostomy catheter
Also known as: nephrostomy exchange, tube exchange, catheter exchange
Percutaneous exchange (replacement) of an existing nephrostomy catheter with a new nephrostomy catheter under radiologic guidance.
In Plain Language
replacement of kidney drainage tube; drainage tube change
Clinical Context
Used for routine catheter maintenance, tube migration, blockage, or infection. Can often be done over guidewire without new tract creation.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.77 |
| Total RVU | 1.77 |
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 1.77, this code ranks in the 12th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.5x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 50435?
CPT 50435 (Exchange nephrostomy catheter) is a Surgery code. Percutaneous exchange (replacement) of an existing nephrostomy catheter with a new nephrostomy catheter under radiologic guidance.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 50435?
The work RVU for CPT 50435 is 1.77. This code is primarily used by Urology, Interventional Radiology.
When is CPT 50435 used?
Used for routine catheter maintenance, tube migration, blockage, or infection. Can often be done over guidewire without new tract creation.
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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.