Ask Dr. Z

I'm not quite sure what codes should be used for this. The radiologist is stating that this is a conversion of an existing nephrostomy tube to a nephroureteral stent. "A scout image demonstrated the existing catheter in place. Contrast was injected into the tube, which demonstrated filling of the renal collecting system. Contrast flowed into an irregularly opacified bladder. A suprapubic catheter was in place. A wire was passed through the catheter, and the catheter was removed. A new 10 French nephroureteral stent was advanced over the wire, and its distal loop formed in the bladder, with the proximal loop in the renal pelvis. The catheter was sutured to the skin, and a sterile dressing was applied. The tube was capped. A drainage bag was provided to the patient in case the tube becomes obstructed."