53601 Dilate urethra stricture
Also known as: urethral dilation, repeat dilation, serial dilation
Endoscopic dilation of a urethral stricture, typically requiring passage of multiple dilators over multiple sessions or using graduated dilation.
In Plain Language
widening narrow urethra multiple times
Clinical Context
Performed on separate occasion from initial dilation or with more graduated technique. Used for resistant strictures requiring multiple dilations.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.96 |
| Total RVU | 0.96 |
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 0.96, this code ranks in the 4th percentile among Surgery codes — 8.3x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 53601?
CPT 53601 (Dilate urethra stricture) is a Surgery code. Endoscopic dilation of a urethral stricture, typically requiring passage of multiple dilators over multiple sessions or using graduated dilation.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 53601?
The work RVU for CPT 53601 is 0.96. This code is primarily used by Urology, Endoscopic Surgery, Office Procedure.
When is CPT 53601 used?
Performed on separate occasion from initial dilation or with more graduated technique. Used for resistant strictures requiring multiple dilations.
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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.