50520 Close kidney-skin fistula
Also known as: kidney-skin fistula closure, fistula repair, fistula closure
Surgical closure of a fistula (abnormal tract) between the kidney and skin.
In Plain Language
surgical closure of abnormal kidney to skin opening; fistula closure
Clinical Context
Usually result of chronic pyelonephritis, renal infarction, or iatrogenic injury. Requires control of underlying obstruction.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 18.41 |
| Total RVU | 18.41 |
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 18.41, this code ranks in the 80th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.3x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 50520?
CPT 50520 (Close kidney-skin fistula) is a Surgery code. Surgical closure of a fistula (abnormal tract) between the kidney and skin.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 50520?
The work RVU for CPT 50520 is 18.41. This code is primarily used by Urology, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 50520 used?
Usually result of chronic pyelonephritis, renal infarction, or iatrogenic injury. Requires control of underlying obstruction.
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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.