Nature: Foley catheter for induction of labor: potential barriers to adopting the technique Foley catheter for induction of labor: potential barriers to adopting the technique The aim of our study was to introduce outpatient induction of labor by Foley catheter, and to compare outcomes and preferences between in-patients and outpatients. This clinical cohort study was ... Answer 3: Since your urologist placed the Foley catheter to treat urinary retention and needed to use cystoscopy to complete the placement, you should report 52281 (Cystourethroscopy, with calibration and/or dilation of urethral stricture or stenosis, with or without meatotomy, with or without injection procedure for cystography, male or female).

Context Explanation

You should only use 51701 for non-indwelling catheter procedures. "Simple" catheter insertion, drainage, and immediate catheter withdrawal fall into this category, Shanley says. However, if the physician inserts an indwelling catheter (such as a Foley catheter), report either 51702 or 51703. Question: My doctor is trying to stump me with "suprapubic needle insertion to pop Foley catheter, using ultrasound guidance for needle placement." This was done in the office for a patient with neurogenic bladder.

Insight Material

How should I code this? California Subscriber Answer: There are a few parts to coding this procedure. First, you should report 51703 (Insertion of temporary indwelling bladder ... Answer: Since your urologist placed the Foley catheter to treat urinary retention and needed to use cystoscopy to complete the placement, you should report 52281 (Cystourethroscopy, with calibration and/or dilation of urethral stricture or stenosis, with or without meatotomy, with or without injection procedure for cystography, male or female). Question: What is the correct code to use for a routine exchange (removal of old, insertion of new) of a suprapubic Foley catheter?

Final Conclusion

The code descriptions for 51702 and 51703 specifically mention bladder catheter. Consider the Dorland’s Illustrated Medical Dictionary definition of Foley catheter: “An indwelling catheter that has a balloon filled with air or liquid to retain it in place in the bladder” An indwelling catheter is a catheter inserted into the bladder through the urethra.