How To Use CPT Code 32800

CPT 32800 describes the surgical repair of a lung hernia through the chest wall, neck passageway, or diaphragm. 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 32800?

CPT 32800 can be used to describe the surgical repair of a lung hernia that occurs when part of the lung pushes through a tear or weak spot in the chest wall, neck passageway, or diaphragm. This code is used when a provider performs the surgical repair to return the lung to its proper position and reinforce the weakened area of the chest.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 32800 is: ‘Repair lung hernia through chest wall, neck passageway, or diaphragm.’

3. Procedure

1. The surgical team prepares the patient for the procedure.
2. Once the patient is sedated, the provider begins the surgical repair of the hernia through an open incision in the chest wall.
3. The provider locates the tear or weak spot and dissects the tissue upward, pulling back all the abdominal contents above the diaphragm.
4. The provider then returns the lung to its proper position by freeing any incarcerated tissue, which may require resection.
5. Next, the provider assesses the chest wall defect and repairs it by suturing over the weakened area.
6. To reinforce the repair, the provider may place a soft synthetic or autologous patch over the hernia defect and secure it in place.
7. If necessary, the provider may bring additional tissue over to the defect to further reinforce the site and support the closure.
8. Chest tubes may be placed as needed for air leak or bleeding.
9. Finally, the provider closes the surgical opening.

4. Qualifying circumstances

Patients eligible for CPT 32800 are those with a lung hernia that requires surgical repair. Lung hernias can occur due to a rare congenital condition, disease, surgery, or trauma. The provider must assess the patient’s condition and determine the need for surgical intervention. The procedure is typically performed by a qualified surgeon.

5. When to use CPT code 32800

CPT code 32800 should be used when a provider performs the surgical repair of a lung hernia through the chest wall, neck passageway, or diaphragm. This code is appropriate when the repair involves returning the lung to its proper position, repairing the chest wall defect, and reinforcing the weakened area. It is important to note that CPT code 32800 should not be reported if other codes, such as CPT codes 32810-32820, are already performed in the same operative session.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 32800, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of a lung hernia and the need for surgical repair
• Description of the surgical repair procedure performed
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the repair, including any resection or reinforcement techniques used
• Placement of chest tubes, if applicable
• Closure of the surgical opening
• Signature of the performing provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 32800, ensure that the surgical repair is performed by a qualified provider. Follow the appropriate coding guidelines and documentation requirements. It is important to note that CPT code 32800 should not be reported if other codes, such as CPT codes 32810-32820, are already performed in the same operative session.

8. Historical information

CPT 32800 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. It was later added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare in 2017.

9. Examples

1. A surgeon performs a surgical repair of a lung hernia through the chest wall for a patient who experienced trauma.
2. A provider repairs a lung hernia through the diaphragm for a patient with a congenital condition.
3. A surgeon performs a surgical repair of a lung hernia through the neck passageway for a patient who underwent previous surgery.
4. A provider performs a surgical repair of a lung hernia through the chest wall, reinforcing the weakened area with a synthetic patch.
5. A surgeon repairs a lung hernia through the diaphragm, bringing additional tissue over to the defect for reinforcement.
6. A provider performs a surgical repair of a lung hernia through the neck passageway, placing chest tubes for air leak management.
7. A surgeon repairs a lung hernia through the chest wall, using sutures to close the chest wall defect.
8. A provider performs a surgical repair of a lung hernia through the diaphragm, securing an autologous patch over the hernia defect.
9. A surgeon repairs a lung hernia through the neck passageway, assessing the chest wall defect and performing necessary resection.
10. A provider performs a surgical repair of a lung hernia through the chest wall, reinforcing the weakened area with additional tissue and securing a synthetic patch.