52000 Cystourethroscopy
Also known as: cystoscopy, cysto, bladder scope
Cystourethroscopy is a diagnostic or operative endoscopic procedure where a thin viewing instrument is passed through the urethra into the bladder to visualize and evaluate urinary tract abnormalities.
In Plain Language
camera test of the bladder; looking inside the bladder with a scope
Clinical Context
Fundamental diagnostic procedure for hematuria, recurrent urinary tract infections, bladder symptoms, and bladder cancer surveillance. Can be combined with therapeutic interventions.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.49 |
| Total RVU | 1.49 |
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 1.49, this code ranks in the 9th percentile among Surgery codes — 5.4x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 52000?
CPT 52000 (Cystourethroscopy) is a Surgery code. Cystourethroscopy is a diagnostic or operative endoscopic procedure where a thin viewing instrument is passed through the urethra into the bladder to visualize and evaluate urinary tract abnormalities.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 52000?
The work RVU for CPT 52000 is 1.49. This code is primarily used by Urology.
When is CPT 52000 used?
Fundamental diagnostic procedure for hematuria, recurrent urinary tract infections, bladder symptoms, and bladder cancer surveillance. Can be combined with therapeutic interventions.
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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.