51050 Removal of bladder stone
Also known as: cystolithotomy, bladder stone removal
Removal of bladder stone (cystolith) via cystotomy, surgical incision of bladder to extract calculus.
In Plain Language
surgical removal of kidney stone from bladder
Clinical Context
Performed for bladder calculi too large for cystoscopic management or in cases with complex anatomy precluding endoscopic approach.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 7.77 |
| Total RVU | 7.77 |
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 7.77, this code ranks in the 49th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.0x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 51050?
CPT 51050 (Removal of bladder stone) is a Surgery code. Removal of bladder stone (cystolith) via cystotomy, surgical incision of bladder to extract calculus.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 51050?
The work RVU for CPT 51050 is 7.77. This code is primarily used by Urology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 51050 used?
Performed for bladder calculi too large for cystoscopic management or in cases with complex anatomy precluding endoscopic approach.
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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.