50555 Kidney endoscopy & biopsy
Also known as: percutaneous renal biopsy, nephroscopic biopsy, percutaneous renal endoscopy with biopsy
Percutaneous endoscopy of the kidney (renal endoscopy) with tissue biopsy for histopathologic diagnosis.
In Plain Language
kidney tissue sample with camera through needle; endoscopic kidney biopsy
Clinical Context
Used for tissue diagnosis of renal masses or lesions identified on imaging via percutaneous access.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 6.36 |
| Total RVU | 6.36 |
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 6.36, this code ranks in the 42nd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.3x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 50555?
CPT 50555 (Kidney endoscopy & biopsy) is a Surgery code. Percutaneous endoscopy of the kidney (renal endoscopy) with tissue biopsy for histopathologic diagnosis.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 50555?
The work RVU for CPT 50555 is 6.36. This code is primarily used by Urology, Interventional Radiology, Pathology.
When is CPT 50555 used?
Used for tissue diagnosis of renal masses or lesions identified on imaging via percutaneous access.
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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.