September 7, 2017

Question:
I performed a laparoscopic adrenalectomy with a urologist who performed a laparoscopic radical nephrectomy. Do I code 60540 for the adrenalectomy?

Answer:
No, you are acting as a co-surgeon, since there is a CPT code that describes both your work and the work of the urologist. Code 50545-62 would be reported by you and by the urologist. Code 50545 describes a radical nephrectomy (included removal of Gerota’s fascia and surrounding fatty tissue, removal of lymph nodes and adrenalectomy.

*This response is based on the best information available as of 09/07/17.