CPT® Code 53215

The procedure described by CPT® Code 53215 refers to a total urethrectomy, which is a surgical operation involving the complete removal of the urethra in males, along with the creation of a cystostomy. The urethra is a tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body, and in men, it runs centrally along the shaft of the penis. This procedure is typically indicated for severe conditions affecting the urethra, such as malignancies, strictures, or other significant pathologies that compromise urinary function. The surgical approach involves making incisions in both the perineum and the lower abdomen to access and remove the urethra from the prostate area to the tip of the penis. During the operation, a Foley catheter or urethral sound is inserted to maintain access to the bladder. The procedure also includes the creation of a cystostomy, which is an opening made in the lower abdomen to allow for urine drainage directly from the bladder, bypassing the urethra. This comprehensive surgical intervention requires careful dissection and mobilization of the urethra and surrounding structures, ensuring that the bladder is properly secured to the abdominal wall post-operation. The complexity of this procedure necessitates a thorough understanding of male anatomy and surgical techniques to ensure successful outcomes and minimize complications.