How To Use CPT Code 32820

CPT 32820 describes the major reconstruction of the chest wall after trauma. 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 32820?

CPT 32820 can be used to describe the surgical stabilization of the chest wall after trauma. The procedure aims to restore the function and structure of the chest wall, including protection, respiration, support, and aesthetic appearance. The provider uses various approaches and surgical strategies to bridge any defects and provide stability to the chest wall.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 32820 is: ‘Major reconstruction, chest wall (posttraumatic).’ This code is used when the provider performs surgical stabilization of the chest wall after trauma using various approaches and surgical strategies to restore its function and structure.

3. Procedure

1. The provider assesses the site and extent of the defect in the chest wall.
2. Based on the assessment, the provider determines the most appropriate surgical approach and strategy for reconstruction.
3. The reconstruction begins with addressing the deepest tissues, such as the pleural cavity, and then proceeds to the skeletal framework and superficial soft tissues.
4. The provider may use techniques such as free flaps, muscle flaps, autologous grafts, artificial meshes, plates, and screws to stabilize the chest wall.
5. The goal of the procedure is to restore the chest wall’s function, support, and aesthetic appearance.
6. The provider may perform additional procedures or interventions as necessary to achieve the desired outcome.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 32820 is typically performed on patients who have experienced chest wall trauma and require major reconstruction. The specific approach and surgical strategies used depend on the site and extent of the defect, as well as the patient’s overall health and expected outcome. The procedure may involve the use of autologous tissue grafts, artificial meshes, or other materials to stabilize the chest wall.

5. When to use CPT code 32820

CPT code 32820 should be used when the provider performs major reconstruction of the chest wall after trauma. It is important to accurately document the extent of the reconstruction and the specific techniques used to stabilize the chest wall. This code should not be used for minor repairs or procedures that do not involve significant reconstruction of the chest wall.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 32820, the provider must document the following information:

• Details of the patient’s chest wall trauma and the need for major reconstruction
• Specific surgical approaches and strategies used for the reconstruction
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Extent of the reconstruction, including the tissues addressed and any additional procedures performed
• Outcome of the procedure and any follow-up plans
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 32820, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for major reconstruction of the chest wall after trauma. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure and the specific techniques used. CPT code 32820 should not be reported with other codes unless additional procedures or interventions are performed during the same session.

8. Historical information

CPT 32820 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code has not undergone any updates since its addition. In 2017, it was added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare reimbursement.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes major reconstruction of the chest wall after a severe motor vehicle accident.
2. A provider performs surgical stabilization of the chest wall following a gunshot wound.
3. A patient requires reconstruction of the chest wall after a fall from a significant height.
4. A provider performs major reconstruction of the chest wall after a sports-related injury.
5. A patient undergoes surgical stabilization of the chest wall following a workplace accident.
6. A provider performs reconstruction of the chest wall after a surgical resection of a tumor.
7. A patient requires major reconstruction of the chest wall after a severe burn injury.
8. A provider performs surgical stabilization of the chest wall following a penetrating injury.
9. A patient undergoes reconstruction of the chest wall after a surgical removal of infected tissue.
10. A provider performs major reconstruction of the chest wall after a congenital deformity.