How To Use CPT Code 32661

CPT 32661 describes a surgical procedure known as thoracoscopy, which involves the use of an endoscope to visualize the pericardial sac and remove a pericardial cyst, tumor, or mass. 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 32661?

CPT 32661 is a code used to describe a surgical procedure called thoracoscopy. This procedure involves the use of an endoscope to visualize the pericardial sac, which contains the heart and the roots of the great vessels. During the procedure, a pericardial cyst, tumor, or mass can be excised or removed. It is important to note that this procedure is performed under anesthesia and requires the insertion of a trocar or port to hold the instruments used during the surgery.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 32661 is: ‘Thoracoscopy, surgical; with excision of pericardial cyst, tumor, or mass.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is placed under anesthesia.
2. An incision is made in the chest to access the pericardial sac.
3. A trocar or port is inserted to hold the instruments used during the procedure.
4. A flexible or rigid endoscope, equipped with a video camera, is inserted through the trocar to visualize the pericardial sac.
5. An instrument is inserted through a trocar or through the endoscope to excise or remove the pericardial cyst, tumor, or mass.
6. The trocars and endoscope are removed, and a chest tube may be inserted to drain the wound and re-expand the lung.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 32661 is typically performed when a patient has a pericardial cyst, tumor, or mass that requires surgical intervention. These conditions are rare and can be either benign or malignant. The procedure is performed by a qualified healthcare professional who has the necessary training and expertise in thoracoscopy. It is important to note that the procedure is performed under anesthesia and requires the use of specialized instruments and equipment.

5. When to use CPT code 32661

CPT code 32661 should be used when a thoracoscopy is performed to excise or remove a pericardial cyst, tumor, or mass. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. If the procedure does not involve the excision of a pericardial cyst, tumor, or mass, a different code should be used to accurately describe the procedure performed.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 32661, the healthcare professional must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis indicating the presence of a pericardial cyst, tumor, or mass
• Description of the procedure performed, including the use of thoracoscopy and the excision or removal of the pericardial cyst, tumor, or mass
• Date of the procedure
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Any additional procedures or interventions performed during the same session
• Any complications or adverse events that occurred during or after the procedure
• Signature of the healthcare professional performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 32661, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. The healthcare professional performing the procedure should have the necessary qualifications and expertise in thoracoscopy. It is also important to follow any additional guidelines or requirements set forth by the payer or insurance company. It is recommended to review the payer’s policies and guidelines to ensure accurate and appropriate billing for the procedure.

8. Historical information

CPT code 32661 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1994. The code has undergone no updates or changes since its addition. However, it is important to stay updated with any changes or revisions to the code in order to accurately report and bill for the procedure.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes thoracoscopy for the excision of a pericardial cyst.
2. A healthcare professional performs thoracoscopy to remove a pericardial tumor.
3. A pericardial mass is excised using thoracoscopy.
4. A patient with a pericardial cyst undergoes thoracoscopy for its removal.
5. Thoracoscopy is performed to excise a pericardial tumor in a patient.
6. A healthcare professional uses thoracoscopy to remove a pericardial mass.
7. A pericardial cyst is excised using thoracoscopy.
8. Thoracoscopy is performed to remove a pericardial tumor in a patient.
9. A healthcare professional uses thoracoscopy to excise a pericardial mass.
10. A patient undergoes thoracoscopy for the removal of a pericardial cyst.