50600 Exploration of ureter
Also known as: ureteral exploration, open ureteral exploration, ureterotomy
Surgical exploration of the ureter through an open incision for diagnosis or treatment of ureteral pathology.
In Plain Language
surgical opening of ureter for examination; surgical exploration of urine tube
Clinical Context
Used for ureteral obstruction, stone removal when other approaches fail, or when concurrent pathology requires ureteral evaluation.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 16.74 |
| Total RVU | 16.74 |
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 16.74, this code ranks in the 77th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.1x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 50600?
CPT 50600 (Exploration of ureter) is a Surgery code. Surgical exploration of the ureter through an open incision for diagnosis or treatment of ureteral pathology.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 50600?
The work RVU for CPT 50600 is 16.74. This code is primarily used by Urology, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 50600 used?
Used for ureteral obstruction, stone removal when other approaches fail, or when concurrent pathology requires ureteral evaluation.
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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.