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BackTable / Urology / Article
2025 Lithotripsy CPT Code
Bryant Schmitz • Updated Jan 29, 2025 • 33 hits
Lithotripsy is a non-invasive medical procedure used to break down kidney stones or other types of stones in the urinary tract. The procedure uses shock waves to fragment the stones into smaller pieces, which can then be passed more easily through the urinary system. Understanding the proper CPT code for lithotripsy is essential for accurate billing and reimbursement in healthcare settings.
Table of Contents
(1) CPT Code for Lithotripsy
(2) Detailed Description of CPT Code 50590
(3) Coding & Billing Considerations
(4) Why Proper Coding Is Important
(5) What is a CPT Code?
(6) Disclaimer
CPT Code for Lithotripsy
The CPT code for lithotripsy is 50590. This code refers specifically to the extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) procedure, which is used to treat kidney stones.
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Detailed Description of CPT Code 50590
CPT Code: 50590
Code Description: Lithotripsy, extracorporeal shock wave, kidney (renal). This procedure involves the use of focused shock waves to break down kidney stones into smaller pieces, allowing them to be passed through the urinary tract.
Inclusions: The code includes the use of shock wave technology, monitoring of the procedure, and any necessary imaging guidance during the procedure.
Exclusions: This code does not include pre-procedural consultations, imaging studies outside of the procedure, or follow-up visits, which need to be billed separately.
Coding & Billing Considerations
Proper documentation should reflect the details of the lithotripsy procedure, including any imaging guidance, such as fluoroscopy or ultrasound, used during the procedure.
The appropriate ICD-10 code should be used to reflect the underlying diagnosis, such as N20.0 (Calculus of kidney) or N20.1 (Calculus of ureter).
Additional codes may be required for related services, such as anesthesia (CPT 00918 for anesthesia during urologic procedures) or follow-up imaging to confirm the success of the procedure.
Why Proper Coding Is Important
Using the correct CPT code 50590 ensures that healthcare providers are reimbursed appropriately for the lithotripsy procedure. Accurate billing also reflects the scope of the services provided, including any imaging or additional interventions necessary to successfully complete the procedure. Correct documentation minimizes billing errors, reduces the risk of claim denials, and helps healthcare providers streamline the reimbursement process.
What is a CPT Code?
CPT stands for Current Procedural Terminology. These codes are used by medical professionals to describe procedures and services performed. CPT codes are crucial for the billing process, allowing healthcare providers to communicate with insurance companies and other payers about the procedures performed.
Disclaimer
The information provided here reflects our understanding of the procedure(s) and/or device(s). This information should not be construed as authoritative. We encourage you to consult CMS.
Podcast Contributors
Dr. Stephen Nakada
Dr. Stephen Nakada is the chair of urology at the University of Wisconsin in Madison.
Dr. Jose Silva
Dr. Jose Silva is a board certified urologist practicing in Central Florida.
Cite This Podcast
BackTable, LLC (Producer). (2022, December 7). Ep. 69 – ESWL: A Forgotten Tool [Audio podcast]. Retrieved from https://www.backtable.com
Disclaimer: The Materials available on BackTable.com are for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for the professional judgment of a healthcare professional in diagnosing and treating patients. The opinions expressed by participants of the BackTable Podcast belong solely to the participants, and do not necessarily reflect the views of BackTable.
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