50840 Replace ureter by bowel
Also known as: ureteral replacement, bowel ureteral substitute, ureteral reconstruction with bowel
Replacement of ureter with bowel segment, substituting damaged or non-functional ureter with intestinal graft to restore urine drainage.
In Plain Language
replacing damaged ureter with intestine
Clinical Context
Indicated for extensive ureteral loss or dysfunction not amenable to primary repair. Commonly uses ileum or colon as substitute.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 21.83 |
| Total RVU | 21.83 |
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 21.83, this code ranks in the 85th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.7x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 50840?
CPT 50840 (Replace ureter by bowel) is a Surgery code. Replacement of ureter with bowel segment, substituting damaged or non-functional ureter with intestinal graft to restore urine drainage.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 50840?
The work RVU for CPT 50840 is 21.83. This code is primarily used by Urology, Colorectal Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 50840 used?
Indicated for extensive ureteral loss or dysfunction not amenable to primary repair. Commonly uses ileum or colon as substitute.
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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.