53000 Incision of urethra
Also known as: urethrotomy, urethral incision
Surgical incision of the urethra (urethrotomy) to relieve urethral obstruction from stricture or spasm, allowing restoration of normal caliber.
In Plain Language
cutting stricture in urethra
Clinical Context
Open approach reserved for more severe strictures. Incision dilates strictured segment.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.27 |
| Total RVU | 2.27 |
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 10-day global period — follow-up visits within 10 days of the procedure are included in the reimbursement. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 2.27, this code ranks in the 16th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.5x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 53000?
CPT 53000 (Incision of urethra) is a Surgery code. Surgical incision of the urethra (urethrotomy) to relieve urethral obstruction from stricture or spasm, allowing restoration of normal caliber.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 53000?
The work RVU for CPT 53000 is 2.27. This code is primarily used by Urology. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 53000 used?
Open approach reserved for more severe strictures. Incision dilates strictured segment.
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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.