52355 Cystouretero with excise tumor
Also known as: cysto with upper tract tumor resection, ureteroscopic tumor ablation
Cystoureteroscopy with insertion of ureteroscope and complete resection or ablation of upper urinary tract tumor using electrocautery or laser energy.
In Plain Language
scope removal of kidney or ureter tumor
Clinical Context
Organ-preserving approach for low-grade upper tract urothelial cancers. Higher recurrence than open nephroureterectomy but maintains renal function.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 8.78 |
| Total RVU | 8.78 |
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 8.78, this code ranks in the 54th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.1x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 52355?
CPT 52355 (Cystouretero with excise tumor) is a Surgery code. Cystoureteroscopy with insertion of ureteroscope and complete resection or ablation of upper urinary tract tumor using electrocautery or laser energy.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 52355?
The work RVU for CPT 52355 is 8.78. This code is primarily used by Urology, Uro-Oncology.
When is CPT 52355 used?
Organ-preserving approach for low-grade upper tract urothelial cancers. Higher recurrence than open nephroureterectomy but maintains renal function.
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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.