© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.
Transurethral water vapor thermotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat malignant prostate tissue by utilizing the thermal energy generated from steam. This technique aims to alleviate lower urinary tract symptoms associated with prostate malignancies. The procedure employs radiofrequency energy to convert small amounts of water into steam, which is then used to ablate the targeted prostate tissue. The process involves a unique method of heat transfer, specifically convective heat transfer, which is more effective than conductive heat transfer in this context. Patients typically receive oral pain medication or anxiolytics, and in some cases, conscious sedation is administered to ensure comfort during the procedure. A prostate block may also be utilized to enhance pain management. During the procedure, the patient is positioned in the lithotomy position, and a specialized hand-held delivery device is inserted into the urethra. This device is equipped with a lens that allows for direct visualization of the prostate tissue through cystoscopy. The needle is carefully positioned within the malignant tissue of the prostate, and a generator applies radiofrequency current to create steam, which is injected into the tissue. The steam rapidly condenses back into water, releasing energy that leads to the destruction of cancerous cells. The needle is adjusted and repositioned as necessary to ensure complete ablation of the targeted tissue. Over time, the body reabsorbs the ablated tissue, resulting in a reduction of prostate volume and an improvement in urinary function.
© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.
The transurethral ablation of malignant prostate tissue by high-energy water vapor thermotherapy is indicated for patients diagnosed with prostate cancer who are experiencing lower urinary tract symptoms. This procedure is particularly suitable for individuals who may benefit from a minimally invasive treatment option that aims to reduce the volume of malignant prostate tissue while alleviating associated urinary symptoms.
The procedure begins with the patient positioned in the lithotomy position to allow for optimal access to the urethra. A hand-held delivery device, which is equipped with a lens for direct cystoscopic visualization, is inserted into the urethra. This device is designed to facilitate precise targeting of the malignant prostatic tissue. Once the device is in place, the needle is carefully positioned within the lateral or median lobes of the prostate, where the malignant tissue is located. A generator is then activated to apply radiofrequency current to the inductive coil within the device. This process converts a few drops of water into steam, which is injected into the prostate tissue through the retractable needle. The needle features small emitter holes that are spaced circumferentially around its tip, allowing for even distribution of the vapor. As the vapor is injected, it immediately condenses back into water, releasing the stored energy into the cell membranes of the targeted tissue. This energy release results in instant cell death of the malignant prostate tissue. After each treatment, the needle is retracted and repositioned to ensure that all targeted areas of the prostate are adequately treated. This process is repeated until the desired amount of malignant tissue has been ablated. Following the procedure, the body gradually reabsorbs the ablated tissue, leading to a reduction in prostate volume and an improvement in urinary function.
Post-procedure care involves monitoring the patient for any immediate complications and managing pain as necessary. Patients may be advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a specified period following the procedure. It is important to follow up with the healthcare provider to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and to monitor for any potential side effects or complications. Over time, as the ablated tissue is reabsorbed by the body, patients can expect an improvement in urinary symptoms, which may enhance their overall quality of life.
| Short Descr | TRURL ABLTJ MAL PRST8 TISS | Medium Descr | TRURL ABLTJ MAL PRST8 TISS HI ENERGY WATER VAPOR | Long Descr | Transurethral ablation of malignant prostate tissue by high-energy water vapor thermotherapy, including intraoperative imaging and needle guidance | Status Code | Carriers Price the Code | Global Days | YYY - Carrier Determines Whether Global Concept Applies | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 0 - Physician Service Code | Multiple Procedures (51) | 0 - No payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply. | Bilateral Surgery (50) | 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply. | Physician Supervisions | 09 - Concept does not apply. | Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) | 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure... | Co-Surgeons (62) | 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure. | Team Surgery (66) | 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure. | Diagnostic Imaging Family | 99 - Concept Does Not Apply | APC Status Indicator | Non-Covered Service, not paid under OPPS | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | none | MUE | 0 |
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| 2020-01-01 | Added | Code added. |
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