How To Use CPT Code 32555

CPT 32555 describes the procedure of thoracentesis, which involves the removal of fluid, blood, or air from the space between the lungs and chest wall using a needle or catheter. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 32555?

CPT 32555 is used to describe the surgical puncture of the thoracic cavity to remove accumulated fluid, blood, or air. This procedure is performed by a healthcare provider using imaging guidance, such as X-ray images or ultrasound, to ensure accuracy and safety.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 32555 is: ‘Thoracentesis, needle or catheter, aspiration of the pleural space; with imaging guidance.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is positioned in a seated position, slightly leaning forward, with their arms resting on a small table.
2. The healthcare provider prepares the patient and administers anesthesia as necessary.
3. Using imaging guidance, such as X-ray images or ultrasound, the provider inserts a thin, hollow needle or catheter between the ribs into the pleural space.
4. The provider carefully removes the fluid, blood, or air from the pleural space through the needle or catheter.
5. The collected fluid, blood, or air is sent to the laboratory for further investigation.
6. After the procedure, the provider bandages the site to promote healing and prevent infection.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 32555 is performed when there is a need to remove accumulated fluid, blood, or air from the pleural space. This procedure is typically indicated for conditions such as pleural effusion, hemothorax, or pneumothorax. It is important to note that the procedure must be performed by a qualified healthcare provider and must include imaging guidance.

5. When to use CPT code 32555

CPT code 32555 should be used when a healthcare provider performs thoracentesis with imaging guidance to remove fluid, blood, or air from the pleural space. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 32555, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• The reason for performing the procedure, including the diagnosis or indication
• The use of imaging guidance during the procedure
• The date and time of the procedure
• The specific details of the procedure, including the amount and nature of the fluid, blood, or air removed
• Any complications or additional interventions performed
• The provider’s signature and credentials

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 32555, it is important to ensure that the procedure was performed with imaging guidance. This code includes the imaging guidance, so it should not be separately reported. It is also important to follow any specific guidelines or requirements set by the payer or insurance company.

8. Historical information

CPT 32555 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2013. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider performs thoracentesis with imaging guidance to remove fluid from the pleural space of a patient with pleural effusion.
2. Using ultrasound guidance, a provider performs thoracentesis to drain blood from the pleural space of a patient with a hemothorax.
3. A healthcare provider uses X-ray guidance to perform thoracentesis and remove air from the pleural space of a patient with a pneumothorax.
4. During thoracentesis with imaging guidance, a provider removes fluid from the pleural space of a patient with congestive heart failure.
5. Using ultrasound guidance, a healthcare provider performs thoracentesis to drain fluid from the pleural space of a patient with liver cirrhosis.
6. A provider performs thoracentesis with imaging guidance to remove air from the pleural space of a patient with a traumatic injury.
7. Using X-ray guidance, a healthcare provider performs thoracentesis to drain fluid from the pleural space of a patient with lung cancer.
8. A provider uses ultrasound guidance to perform thoracentesis and remove blood from the pleural space of a patient with a chest trauma.
9. During thoracentesis with imaging guidance, a healthcare provider removes fluid from the pleural space of a patient with pneumonia.
10. Using X-ray guidance, a provider performs thoracentesis to drain air from the pleural space of a patient with a lung infection.