53605 Dilate urethra stricture
Also known as: internal urethrotomy, endoscopic urethrotomy, cold knife urethrotomy
Endoscopic dilation of a urethral stricture using an internal urethrotome or endoscopic cutting instrument.
In Plain Language
cutting scar tissue in urethra
Clinical Context
Used for strictures amenable to incision. More aggressive than mechanical dilation but less morbid than formal urethroplasty.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.25 |
| Total RVU | 1.25 |
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 1.25, this code ranks in the 6th percentile among Surgery codes — 6.4x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 53605?
CPT 53605 (Dilate urethra stricture) is a Surgery code. Endoscopic dilation of a urethral stricture using an internal urethrotome or endoscopic cutting instrument.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 53605?
The work RVU for CPT 53605 is 1.25. This code is primarily used by Urology, Endoscopic Surgery, Minimal Access.
When is CPT 53605 used?
Used for strictures amenable to incision. More aggressive than mechanical dilation but less morbid than formal urethroplasty.
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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.