52265 Cystoscopy and treatment
Also known as: cysto with cold biopsy, cysto with cold snare resection
Cystourethroscopy with cold cup biopsy or cold snare procedure for removal of bladder lesions without thermal energy, minimizing mucosal trauma.
In Plain Language
tissue removal without burning
Clinical Context
Used for small benign lesions or diagnostic biopsies where thermal injury should be minimized. Reduced risk of bladder perforation.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.87 |
| Total RVU | 2.87 |
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 2.87, this code ranks in the 20th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.8x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 52265?
CPT 52265 (Cystoscopy and treatment) is a Surgery code. Cystourethroscopy with cold cup biopsy or cold snare procedure for removal of bladder lesions without thermal energy, minimizing mucosal trauma.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 52265?
The work RVU for CPT 52265 is 2.87. This code is primarily used by Urology.
When is CPT 52265 used?
Used for small benign lesions or diagnostic biopsies where thermal injury should be minimized. Reduced risk of bladder perforation.
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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.