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Radical retropubic prostatectomy (bilateral nerve sparing)
Bit confused about choosing CPT® code "55845 - Prostatectomy, retropubic radical, with or without nerve sparing; with bilateral pelvic lymphadenectomy, including external iliac, hypogastric, and obturator nodes"
As per Op notes, there is right and left pelvic lymphadectomy;
"....and the lymphatic tissue medial and posterior to the external iliac vein was removed as well as the lymphatic tissue mediolateral, anterior, and posterior to the obturator nerve. The cephalad-caudad lymph node dissection was done at the bifurcation of the iliac vessels and the node of Cloquet respectively. Hemostasis was assured with cautery and clips. All the lymphatic tissues were forwarded to the pathology in formalin ......"
Does the above notes stand for the later part of CPT® description like " - with bilateral pelvic lymphadenectomy, including external iliac, hypogastric, and obturator nodes" to choose this code..
Thanks in advance.
re: Radical retropubic prostatectomy (bilateral nerve sparing)
I say yes: the node of Cloquet accurately reflects the pathologic status of the iliac/obturator nodes.