Pathologic Specimens at Time of Pyeloplasty: Frequency and Practice Patterns

Abstract Objective To assess national and regional practice patterns and rates of pathologic specimen identification sent at time of pyeloplasty, as well as project associated costs, we used a national administrative database. The rate at which the excised ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) is sent for pathologic identification is variable, arguably without a clear clinical purpose. Materials / Methods Utilizing a national administrative database of privately insured patients, 1496 individual cases were identified using international classification of diseases (ICD) and Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) coding. Patients from 0-18 years of age were included whose pyeloplasty was performed during 2010-2014. Patients who were and were not billed for pathologic identification at time of surgery were identified. Regional practice patterns and associated costs were determined. Results One thousand four hundred and ninety-six pyeloplasty cases were identified (68.2% males). Specimens were sent for pathologic identification in 827 cases (55%). Average age was 5.8 years for those without pathology and 4.6 years for those in whom a specimen was billed. Regionally, the Western United States was least likely to bill for surgical pathology (49%). The parental out-of-pocket payment for the encounter was on average $1518 for cases in which pathology was sent and $1398 for those cases for which no pathology bill was identified. Conclusion Pediatric pyeloplasty is a common surgical procedure for which a pathologic specimen is sent in as many as 55% of cases in this cohort. Regional differences exist across the country and there is an associated slightly higher out-of-pocket cost in cases for which pathologic specimens are sent at time of pyeloplasty.