How To Use CPT Code 32215

CPT 32215 describes a surgical procedure known as pleural scarification, which is performed to alleviate or prevent trapped air in the lungs in patients with repeat pneumothorax. This article will provide an overview of the code, including its official description, the procedure itself, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples of when CPT 32215 may be used.

1. What is CPT Code 32215?

CPT 32215 is a code used to describe the surgical procedure of pleural scarification. This procedure is performed by a healthcare provider to remove trapped air in the lungs in patients who have experienced repeat pneumothorax. Pleural scarification involves the surgical abrasion of the serous membrane that lines the thorax and walls of the pulmonary cavity and envelops the lungs. By grazing the surfaces of the lungs, the provider causes inflammation, which helps the lung surface adhere to the chest wall, relieving or preventing trapped air.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 32215 is: ‘Pleural scarification for repeat pneumothorax.’

3. Procedure

1. When performing pleural scarification, the healthcare provider ensures that the patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. The provider then accesses the lungs and performs surgical abrasion of the pleura, which is the serous membrane lining the thorax and walls of the pulmonary cavity.
3. By grazing the surfaces of the lungs, the provider causes inflammation, which helps the lung surface adhere to the chest wall.
4. The provider takes the necessary steps for closure of the surgical wound.

4. Qualifying circumstances

Patients who may require pleural scarification are those with repeat pneumothorax, which is the presence of trapped air between a lung and the chest wall. The procedure is performed to alleviate or prevent this trapped air. The healthcare provider assesses the patient’s condition and determines the need for pleural scarification based on the patient’s medical history and diagnostic tests.

5. When to use CPT code 32215

CPT code 32215 should be used when a healthcare provider performs pleural scarification for a patient with repeat pneumothorax. It is important to note that this code is specific to cases of repeat pneumothorax and should not be used for other conditions or procedures.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 32215, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of repeat pneumothorax
• Details of the procedure, including the specific steps taken during pleural scarification
• Date of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 32215, ensure that the procedure meets the qualifying circumstances of repeat pneumothorax. It is important to accurately document the procedure and provide any necessary supporting documentation. Additionally, be aware of any specific billing guidelines or requirements set forth by insurance providers or regulatory bodies.

8. Historical information

CPT code 32215 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. In 2017, it was added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare reimbursement.

9. Examples

1. A patient with a history of repeat pneumothorax undergoes pleural scarification to alleviate trapped air in the lungs.
2. A healthcare provider performs pleural scarification on a patient who has experienced multiple episodes of pneumothorax.
3. Pleural scarification is performed on a patient with a recurrent pneumothorax to prevent further episodes of trapped air.
4. A healthcare provider performs pleural scarification on a patient with a known history of repeat pneumothorax.
5. Pleural scarification is performed as a preventive measure for a patient who is at high risk for repeat pneumothorax.
6. A patient with a chronic pneumothorax undergoes pleural scarification to alleviate symptoms and improve lung function.
7. Pleural scarification is performed on a patient with a history of recurrent pneumothorax to promote lung adherence and prevent future episodes of trapped air.
8. A healthcare provider performs pleural scarification on a patient with a repeat pneumothorax to improve lung function and prevent complications.
9. Pleural scarification is performed on a patient with a known history of repeat pneumothorax to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.
10. A patient with a recurrent pneumothorax undergoes pleural scarification to prevent further episodes and improve respiratory function.