51550 Partial removal of bladder
Also known as: partial cystectomy, segmental cystectomy, partial bladder removal
Partial removal of bladder (partial cystectomy), surgical excision of portion of bladder for malignancy or severe dysfunction.
In Plain Language
surgical removal of part of bladder
Clinical Context
Indicated for bladder cancer, severe ulceration, or dysfunction limited to one region. Preserves remaining bladder function.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 16.80 |
| Total RVU | 16.80 |
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 16.80, 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 51550?
CPT 51550 (Partial removal of bladder) is a Surgery code. Partial removal of bladder (partial cystectomy), surgical excision of portion of bladder for malignancy or severe dysfunction.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 51550?
The work RVU for CPT 51550 is 16.80. This code is primarily used by Urology, Oncology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 51550 used?
Indicated for bladder cancer, severe ulceration, or dysfunction limited to one region. Preserves remaining bladder function.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against national 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.