CPT® Code 51701

The procedure described by CPT® Code 51701 involves the insertion of a non-indwelling bladder catheter, commonly known as straight catheterization. This medical intervention is primarily utilized to facilitate the emptying of the bladder or to assess the presence of residual urine after a patient has urinated. Residual urine refers to the urine that remains in the bladder after an attempt to void, which can indicate incomplete bladder emptying. The process begins with the patient urinating into a container, allowing for the measurement of the volume of urine expelled. Following this, a catheter kit is assembled, and the urethra is meticulously cleansed with an antiseptic solution to minimize the risk of infection. A sterile catheter is then carefully inserted through the urethra and into the bladder, enabling the drainage of urine. The volume of urine drained is subsequently measured to determine the amount of residual urine, providing valuable information regarding the patient's bladder function.