50686 Measure ureter pressure
Also known as: ureteral pressure study, pressure flow study, ureteral manometry
Measurement and recording of ureteral pressure (Whitaker test for ureter) through a percutaneous catheter to assess obstructive level.
In Plain Language
test to measure ureter pressure and blockage; ureter function pressure test
Clinical Context
Used to differentiate obstructive from non-obstructive ureteral dilation when imaging is equivocal.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.47 |
| Total RVU | 1.47 |
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 1.47, this code ranks in the 9th percentile among Surgery codes — 5.4x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 50686?
CPT 50686 (Measure ureter pressure) is a Surgery code. Measurement and recording of ureteral pressure (Whitaker test for ureter) through a percutaneous catheter to assess obstructive level.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 50686?
The work RVU for CPT 50686 is 1.47. This code is primarily used by Urology, Interventional Radiology.
When is CPT 50686 used?
Used to differentiate obstructive from non-obstructive ureteral dilation when imaging is equivocal.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against MGMA data — all in one app.
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.