How To Use CPT Code 32501

CPT 32501 describes the resection and repair of a portion of the bronchus, specifically when performed at the time of a lobectomy or segmentectomy. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 32501?

CPT 32501 can be used to describe the resection and repair of a damaged portion of the bronchus during a lobectomy or segmentectomy procedure. This code is specifically used when the provider sutures the damaged bronchus back to the main bronchial tube after removing lung lobes or a lobe segment.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 32501 is: ‘Resection and repair of portion of bronchus (bronchoplasty) when performed at time of lobectomy or segmentectomy (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure).’ It is important to note that this code should be used in conjunction with the primary procedure codes 32480, 32482, or 32484.

3. Procedure

1. After removing lung lobes or a lobe segment, the provider assesses the damaged bronchus and determines the need for resection and repair.
2. The provider sutures the damaged portion of the bronchus back to the main bronchial tube.
3. If necessary, the provider may leave flexible tubes in the chest to drain out fluid, air, and blood.
4. The provider closes the wound with sutures and wiring of the two halves of the sternum.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 32501 is used when a portion of the bronchus is resected and requires plastic closure to preserve the function of the preserved lung. It should not be used for closure of the proximal end of a resected bronchus. This procedure is typically performed during a lobectomy or segmentectomy, and it is important to use the appropriate primary procedure code in conjunction with CPT 32501.

5. When to use CPT code 32501

CPT code 32501 should be used when a provider performs the resection and repair of a portion of the bronchus during a lobectomy or segmentectomy procedure. It is important to use this code in addition to the primary procedure code for accurate billing and documentation.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 32501, the provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the resection and repair of the bronchus
• Details of the primary procedure (lobectomy or segmentectomy)
• Description of the damaged portion of the bronchus
• Method of repair and suturing
• Use of flexible tubes for drainage, if applicable
• Closure of the wound with sutures and wiring

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 32501, ensure that the procedure is performed during a lobectomy or segmentectomy. It is important to report this code in addition to the primary procedure code (32480, 32482, or 32484). Payers will not reimburse for CPT 32501 without an appropriate primary code. It is also important to follow any specific guidelines or requirements from the payer regarding documentation and billing for this procedure.

8. Historical information

CPT 32501 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1996. There have been no updates to the code since its addition. However, it is important to stay updated with any changes or revisions to the coding guidelines and requirements.

9. Examples

1. A thoracic surgeon performing a lobectomy and repairing a damaged bronchus during the same procedure.
2. A cardiothoracic surgeon performing a segmentectomy and suturing a portion of the bronchus back to the main bronchial tube.
3. An interventional pulmonologist removing lung lobes and repairing a damaged bronchus to preserve lung function.
4. A thoracic surgeon performing a lobectomy and using sutures to repair a portion of the bronchus.
5. A cardiothoracic surgeon performing a segmentectomy and suturing the damaged bronchus back to the main bronchial tube.
6. An interventional pulmonologist removing lung lobes and repairing a damaged bronchus to ensure proper lung function.
7. A thoracic surgeon performing a lobectomy and using sutures to repair a portion of the bronchus.
8. A cardiothoracic surgeon performing a segmentectomy and suturing the damaged bronchus back to the main bronchial tube.
9. An interventional pulmonologist removing lung lobes and repairing a damaged bronchus to preserve lung function.
10. A thoracic surgeon performing a lobectomy and using sutures to repair a portion of the bronchus.