Unlisted laparoscopy procedure, ureter
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Unlisted Laparoscopy Procedure, Ureter
Summary
This is a minimally invasive surgery performed via small incisions in the abdomen to address problems related to the ureter, the tubes carrying urine from the kidneys to the bladder. Because it is unlisted, it covers various, less common surgical procedures not specifically coded in standard medical billing systems.
Purpose
The procedure aims to treat ureteral issues such as strictures (narrowing), obstructions, injuries, or tumors. The goal is to restore normal urinary flow and alleviate symptoms like pain, infection, or kidney damage.
Indications
- Persistent flank pain or abdominal pain
- Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Hydronephrosis (swelling of a kidney due to urine buildup)
- Ureteral strictures or blockages
- Traumatic injury to the ureter
Preparation
- Patients may be required to fast for 8 hours before the procedure.
- Medications may need to be adjusted or temporarily stopped.
- Preoperative diagnostic tests such as blood work, urinalysis, and imaging studies (CT scan, ultrasound) might be necessary.
Procedure Description
- The patient is given general anesthesia.
- Small incisions are made in the abdomen to insert a laparoscope (a camera) and specialized surgical instruments.
- The surgeon visualizes the ureter on a monitor and performs the necessary actions, such as removing a blockage, repairing an injury, or excising a tumor.
- The incisions are closed with sutures or surgical glue.
Duration
The procedure typically takes 1 to 3 hours, depending on its complexity.
Setting
The surgery is performed in a hospital operating room or a specialized surgical center.
Personnel
- Surgeon specialized in urology
- Anesthesiologist
- Surgical nurses
- Operating room technicians
Risks and Complications
- Infection at the incision sites
- Bleeding
- Injury to surrounding organs or tissues
- Urine leakage
- Blood clots
- Anesthetic complications
Benefits
- Minimally invasive with smaller incisions and quicker recovery
- Reduced postoperative pain
- Enhanced ability to treat complex ureteral conditions with precision
- Shorter hospital stay compared to open surgery
Recovery
- Hospital stay of 1 to 2 days
- Pain management with prescribed medications
- Instruction on wound care and activity restrictions
- Follow-up visit(s) with the surgeon
- Return to normal activities within 2 to 4 weeks
Alternatives
- Open ureteral surgery: More invasive, longer recovery time.
- Endoscopic procedures: Less invasive but may not be suitable for all ureteral conditions.
- Medical management: For less severe cases or when surgery poses high risk.
Patient Experience
Patients can expect some discomfort at the incision sites and may feel groggy from anesthesia. Pain is generally manageable with medications. Mobility is encouraged soon after surgery to reduce the risk of complications. Full recovery allows return to normal activities and significant symptom relief.