New CPT code available for RF ablation of renal tumors

The American Medical Association has assigned a new CPT code, 50592, for percutaneous radiofrequency ablation of renal tumors. Following the AMA’s action, Medicare issued a new National Unadjusted Payment Rate Relative Value Units calculations for both facility and non-facility based procedures of this type, according to RITA Medical Systems, a manufacturer of RF ablation systems. The new code and payment levels become effective Jan. 1, 2006.

“Recognition from the AMA’s CPT Editorial Panel that renal RFA is appropriately recorded with a unique CPT code is, in our view, additional validation of the acceptance of the procedure among clinicians,” said Joseph DeVivo, president and CEO of RITA Medical Systems.

The newly published Medicare National Unadjusted Payment Rates set payment levels for physician services at $5,666.40 per procedure for non-facility-based treatments and $367.92 for physician services for facility-based treatments.