51990 Laparoscopic urethral suspension
Also known as: laparoscopic Burch procedure, lap urethral suspension, laparoscopic continence procedure
Laparoscopic suspension of the urethra to correct stress urinary incontinence by elevating and stabilizing the urethra and urethrovesical angle using sutures placed through minimally invasive technique.
In Plain Language
minimally invasive bladder neck tightening; laparoscopic urine leakage fix
Clinical Context
Indicated for stress incontinence due to urethral hypermobility in women. Laparoscopic approach offers faster recovery than open Burch colposuspension with similar efficacy.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 13.03 |
| Total RVU | 13.03 |
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 13.03, this code ranks in the 68th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.6x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 51990?
CPT 51990 (Laparoscopic urethral suspension) is a Surgery code. Laparoscopic suspension of the urethra to correct stress urinary incontinence by elevating and stabilizing the urethra and urethrovesical angle using sutures placed through minimally invasive technique.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 51990?
The work RVU for CPT 51990 is 13.03. This code is primarily used by Urology, Female Urology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 51990 used?
Indicated for stress incontinence due to urethral hypermobility in women. Laparoscopic approach offers faster recovery than open Burch colposuspension with similar efficacy.
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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.