Coding Ahead
CasePilot
Medical Coding Assistant
Case2Code
Search and Code Lookup Tool
CareerCenter
Medical Coding Job Board
Log in Register free account

Need help choosing the right code?

Ask CasePilot about procedures, modifiers, bundling, and coding guidance.

Try CasePilot
Code deleted, see 53451, 53452, 53453, 53454

Official Description

Transperineal periurethral balloon continence device; removal, each balloon

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 0550T refers to the removal of a transperineal periurethral balloon continence device, specifically addressing each balloon involved in the procedure. This device is primarily utilized for men experiencing urinary incontinence, particularly following prostate surgery or radiation therapy. The purpose of the device is to restore normal pelvic pressure and urinary continence, which can be significantly affected by these medical interventions. The procedure involves the use of a cystoscope, which is a specialized instrument that allows visualization of the urethra and bladder. A sharp-tipped trocar and sheath are utilized to create a small incision in the perineum, facilitating access to the pelvic floor. Under fluoroscopic guidance, the trocar and sheath are carefully inserted and advanced to the bladder level. Once the device is in place, the balloon is inflated to secure it, and the sheath is subsequently removed. The procedure may be bilateral, requiring repetition on the opposite side if necessary. After a recovery period, adjustments to the balloon volume can be made through a needle access point in the perineum. The removal of the device involves deflating the balloon, making an incision, and carefully dissecting the device from surrounding tissues. This comprehensive approach ensures that the procedure is performed safely and effectively, addressing the needs of patients dealing with urinary incontinence.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The transperineal periurethral balloon continence device is indicated for use in men who experience urinary incontinence following prostate surgery and/or radiation therapy. This condition can arise due to the impact of these medical treatments on the pelvic floor and urinary function, necessitating interventions to restore normal urinary control and pelvic pressure.

  • Urinary Incontinence This procedure is performed to manage urinary incontinence that may occur as a complication of prostate surgery or radiation therapy.

2. Procedure

The procedure for the removal of the transperineal periurethral balloon continence device involves several detailed steps to ensure safe and effective extraction. Initially, a cystoscope is introduced through the urethra into the bladder, allowing for direct visualization of the urinary tract. Following this, a sharp-tipped trocar and sheath are assembled, and a small incision is made in the perineum to facilitate access to the pelvic area. Under fluoroscopic guidance, the trocar and sheath are carefully inserted through the incision and advanced through the pelvic floor to reach the bladder. Once the trocar is positioned correctly, it is replaced with a blunt-tipped trocar to continue the advancement to the bladder level. After the trocar is removed, the deflated balloon device is advanced through the sheath to the predetermined location within the urethra. The sheath is then partially retracted, and the balloon is inflated with a small volume of fluid to secure it in place. After inflation, the sheath is removed, and the perineum is closed to complete the initial placement. If bilateral placement is required, the entire procedure is repeated on the opposite side. Following a recovery period, adjustments to the balloon volume can be made by accessing the device with a needle through the perineum, allowing for the addition of fluid until the optimal inflation volume is achieved. When the time comes for removal, a small incision is again made in the perineum, the balloon is deflated, and the device is carefully dissected free from surrounding tissue before being removed.

  • Cystoscope Insertion A cystoscope is passed through the urethra into the bladder for visualization.
  • Incision Creation A small incision is made in the perineum to access the pelvic floor.
  • Trocar and Sheath Insertion Under fluoroscopic guidance, a sharp-tipped trocar and sheath are inserted through the incision and advanced to the bladder.
  • Trocar Replacement The sharp-tipped trocar is replaced with a blunt-tipped trocar for continued advancement.
  • Balloon Device Advancement The deflated balloon device is advanced through the sheath to the desired location.
  • Balloon Inflation The sheath is partially retracted, and the balloon is inflated with fluid to anchor it in place.
  • Sheath Removal The sheath is removed, and the perineum is closed.
  • Bilateral Placement If necessary, the procedure is repeated on the opposite side.
  • Volume Adjustment After recovery, fluid can be added through a needle access point to adjust balloon volume.
  • Device Removal To remove the device, a small incision is made, the balloon is deflated, and the device is dissected free and removed.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care involves monitoring the patient for any complications following the removal of the transperineal periurethral balloon continence device. Patients may experience some discomfort at the incision site, which should be managed appropriately. It is essential to provide instructions regarding signs of infection or unusual symptoms that may require medical attention. Recovery time may vary, but patients are generally advised to avoid strenuous activities for a specified period to allow for proper healing. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to assess recovery and ensure that urinary function is returning to normal.

Short Descr TPRNL BALO CNTNC DEV RMVL EA
Medium Descr TPRNL BALO CNTNC DEV REMOVAL EACH BALLOON
Long Descr Transperineal periurethral balloon continence device; removal, each balloon
Status Code Carriers Price the Code
Global Days YYY - Carrier Determines Whether Global Concept Applies
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 0 - No payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Hospital Part B services paid through a comprehensive APC
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) none
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
Date
Action
Notes
2021-12-31 Deleted Code deleted, see 53451, 53452, 53453, 53454
2020-01-01 Added First appearance in code book.
2019-07-01 Added Code added.
Code
Description
CasePilot

Get instant expert-level medical coding assistance.

Ask about:
CPT Codes Guidelines Modifiers Crosswalks NCCI Edits Compliance Medicare Coverage
Example: "What is CPT code 99213?" or "Guidelines for E/M services"