CPT® Code 51065

CPT® Code 51065 refers to a surgical procedure known as cystotomy, which involves making an incision in the urinary bladder to facilitate the extraction of a ureteral calculus, or kidney stone. This procedure is typically indicated when a patient has a stone that is obstructing the urinary tract and cannot be removed through less invasive methods. The term 'cystotomy' specifically denotes the surgical opening of the bladder, allowing access to the ureter where the calculus is located. During the procedure, a skin incision is made in the lower abdomen, and various layers of tissue are carefully dissected to reach the bladder. The bladder wall is then incised to allow for the removal of the stone, which may be accomplished through a basket extraction technique or by using lithotripsy methods such as ultrasonic or electrohydraulic fragmentation. This procedure is essential for relieving obstruction and preventing further complications associated with ureteral stones, such as infection or kidney damage.