How To Use CPT Code 32671

CPT 32671 describes a specific procedure involving the removal of a lung through thoracoscopy, also known as video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS). This article will provide an overview of CPT code 32671, including its official description, the procedure itself, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 32671?

CPT 32671 is a code used to describe a surgical procedure known as thoracoscopy with the removal of a lung, specifically a pneumonectomy. This procedure involves visualizing the chest cavity and either the left or right lung in order to remove it. It is typically performed to treat lung cancer or other conditions that require the removal of the entire lung.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 32671 is: ‘Thoracoscopy, surgical; with removal of lung (pneumonectomy).’ This code specifically refers to the surgical removal of a lung using thoracoscopy, a minimally invasive technique that utilizes small incisions and a video camera to guide the procedure.

3. Procedure

1. The patient undergoes anesthesia to ensure they are comfortable and unaware during the procedure.
2. The healthcare provider makes an incision in the chest and inserts a trocar, or port, to hold the instruments used during the surgery.
3. A partial collapse of the lung is achieved by passing air through the trocar, allowing the provider to visualize the area to be treated.
4. A flexible or rigid endoscope, equipped with a video camera, is inserted through the trocar to provide a clear view of the chest cavity and the lung to be removed.
5. Additional trocars may be inserted to accommodate other operating instruments used to clamp and cut bronchial tubes and blood vessels connected to the lung.
6. The lung is excised, and the area where it was removed is sutured to promote healing.
7. A chest tube is inserted to drain the wound and re-expand the remaining lung.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 32671 is typically performed on patients who require a pneumonectomy to treat lung cancer or other conditions. The procedure is performed by a healthcare provider who is trained in thoracoscopy and has the necessary expertise to safely remove a lung. It is important to note that not all patients will be eligible for this procedure, and the decision to perform a pneumonectomy should be based on a thorough evaluation of the patient’s condition and medical history.

5. When to use CPT code 32671

CPT code 32671 should be used when a healthcare provider performs a pneumonectomy using thoracoscopy. This code specifically refers to the surgical removal of a lung through a minimally invasive approach. It is important to accurately document the procedure and ensure that it meets the criteria outlined in the official description of CPT code 32671.

6. Documentation requirements

When reporting CPT code 32671, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the medical necessity for a pneumonectomy
• Details of the thoracoscopy procedure, including the specific lung being removed
• Date of the procedure and the duration of the surgery
• Any additional procedures or interventions performed during the surgery
• Post-operative care instructions and any complications that may have arisen
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 32671, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the criteria outlined in the official description. The healthcare provider should be trained and experienced in thoracoscopy and should accurately document the details of the procedure. It is also important to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by insurance companies or government payers. Additionally, it is important to note that CPT code 32671 may not be reported with certain other codes, so it is essential to review the coding guidelines and consult with a coding specialist if necessary.

8. Historical information

CPT code 32671 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2012. Since its addition, there have been no updates or changes to the code.

9. Examples

1. A patient with lung cancer undergoes a pneumonectomy using thoracoscopy to remove the affected lung.
2. A healthcare provider performs a pneumonectomy using thoracoscopy on a patient with a severe lung infection.
3. A patient with a non-cancerous lung tumor undergoes a pneumonectomy using thoracoscopy for curative purposes.
4. A healthcare provider performs a pneumonectomy using thoracoscopy on a patient with a lung abscess that has not responded to other treatments.
5. A patient with a large lung cyst undergoes a pneumonectomy using thoracoscopy to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.
6. A healthcare provider performs a pneumonectomy using thoracoscopy on a patient with a lung injury that cannot be repaired through other means.
7. A patient with a rare lung disease undergoes a pneumonectomy using thoracoscopy as a last resort treatment option.
8. A healthcare provider performs a pneumonectomy using thoracoscopy on a patient with a lung metastasis from another primary cancer.
9. A patient with a lung infection that has spread to the entire lung undergoes a pneumonectomy using thoracoscopy to prevent further complications.
10. A healthcare provider performs a pneumonectomy using thoracoscopy on a patient with a large lung tumor that cannot be removed through other surgical approaches.