51705 Change of bladder tube
Also known as: catheter change, Foley change, catheter replacement
Change of bladder tube or catheter, removal and replacement of existing indwelling catheter.
In Plain Language
changing the bladder drain
Clinical Context
Routine procedure for catheter maintenance, obstruction, or scheduled replacement.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.88 |
| Total RVU | 0.88 |
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 0.88, this code ranks in the 3rd percentile among Surgery codes — 9.1x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 51705?
CPT 51705 (Change of bladder tube) is a Surgery code. Change of bladder tube or catheter, removal and replacement of existing indwelling catheter.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 51705?
The work RVU for CPT 51705 is 0.88. This code is primarily used by Urology, Nursing.
When is CPT 51705 used?
Routine procedure for catheter maintenance, obstruction, or scheduled replacement.
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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.