How To Use CPT Code 32656

CPT 32656 describes a surgical procedure known as thoracoscopy with parietal pleurectomy. 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 32656 may be used.

1. What is CPT Code 32656?

CPT 32656 is a code used to describe a specific surgical procedure called thoracoscopy with parietal pleurectomy. This procedure involves the use of an endoscope to visualize the chest cavity and the removal of the parietal pleura, which is the outer layer of membrane that covers the chest cavity. It is typically performed to address conditions such as trauma to the chest or the presence of fluid buildup in the pleura, known as pleural effusion.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 32656 is: ‘Thoracoscopy, surgical; with parietal pleurectomy.’

3. Procedure

1. The surgeon begins by making incisions in the chest to insert the necessary instruments for the procedure.
2. Using an endoscope, the surgeon visualizes the chest cavity and identifies the section of the parietal pleura that needs to be removed.
3. The surgeon carefully cuts away the identified section of the parietal pleura, either partially or entirely.
4. After the pleurectomy, the surgeon removes the trocars and endoscope from the chest.
5. A chest tube is then inserted to drain the wound and re-expand the lung.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 32656 is typically performed in cases where a patient has experienced trauma to the chest or has developed pleural effusion. The procedure involves the removal of the parietal pleura, which is the outer layer of membrane covering the chest cavity. It is important to note that this procedure should only be performed by a qualified surgeon with the necessary expertise and training.

5. When to use CPT code 32656

CPT code 32656 should be used when a surgeon performs a thoracoscopy with parietal pleurectomy. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. This code should not be used for other types of thoracic procedures or when a different approach is taken.

6. Documentation requirements

When reporting CPT code 32656, the following documentation should be included:

• Clear indication of the patient’s condition necessitating the procedure
• Description of the specific steps taken during the thoracoscopy with parietal pleurectomy
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Any additional relevant details or complications encountered during the procedure
• Signature of the performing surgeon

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 32656, it is important to ensure that the procedure performed aligns with the code description. Additionally, it is crucial to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by insurance companies or regulatory bodies. It is also important to note that CPT code 32656 should not be reported with other codes unless they are performed in conjunction with the procedure.

8. Historical information

CPT code 32656 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1994. Since its addition, there have been no updates or changes to the code.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes thoracoscopy with parietal pleurectomy to address a traumatic injury to the chest.
2. A surgeon performs thoracoscopy with parietal pleurectomy to remove the parietal pleura affected by pleural effusion.
3. Thoracoscopy with parietal pleurectomy is performed on a patient with a history of recurrent pleural effusion.
4. A surgeon utilizes thoracoscopy with parietal pleurectomy to address complications following a previous thoracic surgery.
5. A patient undergoes thoracoscopy with parietal pleurectomy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for a specific chest condition.
6. Thoracoscopy with parietal pleurectomy is performed to alleviate symptoms and improve lung function in a patient with a chronic pleural condition.
7. A surgeon performs thoracoscopy with parietal pleurectomy to address a pleural infection.
8. A patient undergoes thoracoscopy with parietal pleurectomy to remove a tumor affecting the parietal pleura.
9. Thoracoscopy with parietal pleurectomy is performed to address complications following a chest surgery.
10. A surgeon utilizes thoracoscopy with parietal pleurectomy to treat a patient with a specific chest condition that requires the removal of the parietal pleura.