Ask Dr. Z

I have a guestion as to when a study is diagnostic in nature. We currently have a disagreement as to when to code for 47500 and/or 50390.The patient is referred to the radiologist for either a neprostomy catheter placement or a internal/external transhepatic stent placement . The report states that the patient has a stricture and needs a tube placement. The radiologist performs a 47500 or 50390 prior to placing the catheter with I want to code. In the sample below I am coding to 50390 as I see this diagnostic (Findings) and not just for localization. Any feedback would be appreciated.Would this be a diagnostic in nature? I guess my question is if the patient is scheduled for such procedure is any finding not codable? Will give an example: My CPT codes would be: 50390-59, 74425-59, 50392, and 74425 CLINICAL HISTORY: Reason: recurrent cervical cancer s/p posterior exenteration on 7/12/11 at LAMC, progressive right hydro with acute renal insufficiency, please place right percutanous nephrostomy tube, thank you OTHER MEDICATIONS: 1% lidocaine,1mg of Versed and 2mg of Morphine. CONTRAST: 20 ml of Visipaque 320. FLUORO TIME: 78 Seconds PROCEDURE TIME: 30 minutes of conscious sedation monitored by the radiology nurse J. Rigo, RN. FINDINGS: Following careful explanation of the potential risks and benefits of the procedure with the patient and/or family member , oral and written informed consent was obtained. The patient was placed prone on the angiographic table and RIGHT flanks were prepped and draped in the usual sterile fashion. Local anesthesia was achieved with 1% lidocaine. Under ultrasound guidance, a permanent image was recorded, a 22-gauge AccuStick needle was advanced into the lower pole calix of the RIGHT kidney. The stylet of the needle was removed and clear urine returned. Contrast was injected which demonstrated mild hydronephrosis. An 018 wire was inserted and the needle was exchanged with a 5-French dilator. The 018 wire was exchanged with a 035 wire. An 8-French nephrostomy catheter was inserted. The catheter was secured to the patient and connected to a drainage bag. Patient tolerated the procedure well and was discharged from the department in stable condition. IMPRESSION: Successful insertion of RIGHT nephrostomy catheter without apparent complications.