50970 Ureter endoscopy
Also known as: transurethral ureteroscopy, retrograde ureteroscopy, ureteroscopy
Endoscopy of ureter via transurethral approach, visualizing the ureter through retrograde ureteroscopy.
In Plain Language
camera examination of ureter through bladder
Clinical Context
Standard diagnostic ureteroscopy approach for most ureteral pathology including stones, strictures, hematuria evaluation.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 6.95 |
| Total RVU | 6.95 |
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 6.95, this code ranks in the 45th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.2x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 50970?
CPT 50970 (Ureter endoscopy) is a Surgery code. Endoscopy of ureter via transurethral approach, visualizing the ureter through retrograde ureteroscopy.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 50970?
The work RVU for CPT 50970 is 6.95. This code is primarily used by Urology.
When is CPT 50970 used?
Standard diagnostic ureteroscopy approach for most ureteral pathology including stones, strictures, hematuria 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.