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CPT 50548: Laparoscopic Nephroureterectomy, Kidney and Ureter Removal
CPT code 50548 identifies a laparoscopic nephroureterectomy — the surgical removal of a kidney together with its entire ureter via minimally invasive laparoscopic technique. This procedure is commonly used for definitive management of upper urinary tract malignancies or other conditions necessitating en bloc removal of the kidney and ureter. Nationally, accurate coding of complex urologic oncology procedures affects episode costs, facility utilization, and quality reporting for surgical care.
Key payers addressed in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Coverage policies and billing rules for major payers influence site-of-service decisions, preauthorization requirements, and allowable reimbursement for laparoscopic versus open approaches.
Readers will find a concise overview of clinical context for CPT code 50548, common billing considerations, and nationally relevant benchmarks where available. The publication outlines payer coverage patterns, expected sites of service, and the procedural scope captured by the code. Data not available in the input will be noted where applicable. The material is intended for coding professionals, revenue cycle staff, and clinical leaders seeking a clear, national-level reference on this specific urologic procedure code.
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Billing Code Overview
CPT code 50548 describes a laparoscopic nephroureterectomy, a surgical procedure in which the provider removes an entire kidney and its ureter using minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques. The procedure represents a definitive operative treatment for conditions requiring removal of the kidney and ureter as a single specimen.
Service type: Surgical — Laparoscopic Urologic Procedure
Typical site of service: Hospital operating room or ambulatory surgical center