52281 Cystoscopy and treatment
Also known as: cysto with ureteral orifice resection
Cystourethroscopy with resection or dilation of a ureteral orifice stenosis (narrowing), allowing restoration of normal urine flow from ureter to bladder.
In Plain Language
opening narrowed connection from kidney tube
Clinical Context
Used for ureteral orifice stenosis causing upper tract obstruction. Can result from prior surgery, radiation, or congenital obstruction.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.68 |
| Total RVU | 2.68 |
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 2.68, this code ranks in the 19th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.0x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 52281?
CPT 52281 (Cystoscopy and treatment) is a Surgery code. Cystourethroscopy with resection or dilation of a ureteral orifice stenosis (narrowing), allowing restoration of normal urine flow from ureter to bladder.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 52281?
The work RVU for CPT 52281 is 2.68. This code is primarily used by Urology.
When is CPT 52281 used?
Used for ureteral orifice stenosis causing upper tract obstruction. Can result from prior surgery, radiation, or congenital obstruction.
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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.