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Code deleted, see 50432, 50433, 50434, 50435, 50606, 50693, 50694, 50695

Official Description

Introduction of ureteral catheter or stent into ureter through renal pelvis for drainage and/or injection, percutaneous, radiological supervision and interpretation

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 74480 involves the introduction of a ureteral catheter or stent into the ureter, which is the duct that transports urine from the kidney to the bladder. This procedure is performed through the renal pelvis, which is the funnel-shaped structure in the kidney that collects urine before it moves into the ureter. The primary purpose of this intervention is to facilitate drainage of fluids or to allow for the injection of medicinal substances directly into the ureter. The procedure is conducted percutaneously, meaning that it is performed through the skin, typically using a needle or small incision. During the procedure, the physician utilizes radiological supervision and interpretation, which involves the use of imaging techniques such as X-rays to monitor the placement of the catheter or stent. This ensures that the device is correctly positioned within the urinary tract, minimizing the risk of complications and enhancing the effectiveness of the treatment.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure associated with CPT® Code 74480 is indicated for several specific clinical scenarios where intervention is necessary to manage urinary flow or deliver therapeutic agents. The following conditions may warrant the performance of this procedure:

  • Ureteral Obstruction The presence of a blockage in the ureter that prevents normal urine flow from the kidney to the bladder, which may be due to stones, tumors, or strictures.
  • Urinary Tract Infections Recurrent or severe infections that may require drainage to alleviate symptoms and prevent further complications.
  • Hydronephrosis A condition characterized by the swelling of a kidney due to a build-up of urine, often resulting from an obstruction in the ureter.
  • Therapeutic Injection The need to administer medications directly into the ureter for conditions such as ureteral strictures or to facilitate the passage of stones.

2. Procedure

The procedure for CPT® Code 74480 involves several critical steps to ensure successful catheter or stent placement within the ureter. Each step is essential for achieving the desired outcome while minimizing risks to the patient.

  • Step 1: Patient Preparation The patient is positioned appropriately, and the area of insertion is cleaned and sterilized to reduce the risk of infection. Sedation or local anesthesia may be administered to ensure patient comfort during the procedure.
  • Step 2: Accessing the Renal Pelvis A percutaneous approach is utilized, where a needle is inserted through the skin into the renal pelvis. This step may involve the use of imaging guidance, such as ultrasound or fluoroscopy, to accurately locate the renal pelvis and ensure proper needle placement.
  • Step 3: Catheter or Stent Insertion Once access to the renal pelvis is established, a guide wire is typically introduced through the needle. The ureteral catheter or stent is then threaded over the guide wire and advanced into the ureter. The physician monitors the placement using radiological imaging to confirm correct positioning.
  • Step 4: Confirmation and Adjustment After the catheter or stent is in place, additional imaging may be performed to verify that it is correctly positioned and functioning as intended. Adjustments can be made if necessary to ensure optimal drainage or therapeutic delivery.
  • Step 5: Securing the Device The catheter or stent is secured in place, and the insertion site is dressed appropriately. The physician may provide instructions for post-procedure care and monitoring.

3. Post-Procedure

Following the procedure associated with CPT® Code 74480, patients are typically monitored for any immediate complications, such as bleeding or infection. Instructions for post-procedure care may include guidelines on activity restrictions, signs of complications to watch for, and follow-up appointments for imaging or evaluation of the catheter or stent's effectiveness. Patients may also be advised on hydration and any medications that may be necessary to manage discomfort or prevent infection. The expected recovery time can vary based on individual patient factors and the complexity of the procedure, but many patients can resume normal activities within a short period, depending on their overall health and the specifics of the intervention.

Short Descr X-RAY CONTROL CATH INSERT
Medium Descr INTRO URETERAL CATH/STENT PRQ RS&I
Long Descr Introduction of ureteral catheter or stent into ureter through renal pelvis for drainage and/or injection, percutaneous, radiological supervision and interpretation
Status Code Active Code
Global Days XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 1 - Diagnostic Tests for Radiology Services
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 T-Packaged Codes
Type of Service (TOS) 4 - Diagnostic Radiology
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) I1F - Standard imaging - other
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 226 - Other diagnostic radiology and related techniques
Date
Action
Notes
2016-01-01 Deleted Code deleted, see 50432, 50433, 50434, 50435, 50606, 50693, 50694, 50695
2011-01-01 Changed Short description changed.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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