51585 Removal of bladder & nodes
Also known as: radical cystectomy with PLND and diversion, cystoprostatectomy with diversion
Removal of bladder with pelvic lymph node dissection and urinary diversion, radical cystectomy with lymphadenectomy and conduit creation.
In Plain Language
bladder and lymph node removal with new urinary system
Clinical Context
Comprehensive cancer surgery combining cystectomy, lymphadenectomy, and urinary diversion. Highest RVU of non-neobladder procedures.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 38.65 |
| Total RVU | 38.65 |
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 38.65, this code ranks in the 97th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.8x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 51585?
CPT 51585 (Removal of bladder & nodes) is a Surgery code. Removal of bladder with pelvic lymph node dissection and urinary diversion, radical cystectomy with lymphadenectomy and conduit creation.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 51585?
The work RVU for CPT 51585 is 38.65. This code is primarily used by Urology, Oncology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 51585 used?
Comprehensive cancer surgery combining cystectomy, lymphadenectomy, and urinary diversion. Highest RVU of non-neobladder procedures.
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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.