How To Use CPT Code 32900

CPT 32900 describes the resection of ribs, specifically the removal of one or more ribs or a section of a rib. 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 32900?

CPT 32900 involves the surgical removal of one or more ribs or a section of a rib. This procedure is performed by a healthcare provider to treat rib fractures that could potentially damage underlying tissues, to address cancer or other disorders, or to utilize a section of a rib for a bone graft. The provider makes an incision in the skin and tissues covering the rib, without cutting through the pleural membrane. The targeted section of the rib is then removed from the chest cavity, and the provider may repair the defect with a bone graft or muscle flaps. Finally, the incised area is sutured closed.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 32900 is: ‘Resection of ribs, extrapleural, all stages.’

3. Procedure

1. During this procedure, the healthcare provider removes one or more ribs or a section of a rib.
2. The patient is placed under anesthesia.
3. The provider makes an incision in the skin and tissues covering the targeted rib, being careful not to cut through the pleural membrane.
4. The section of rib is cut and removed from the chest cavity.
5. If necessary, the provider may attach a bone graft or muscle flaps to repair the defect caused by the resection.
6. The incised area is then sutured closed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 32900 is performed in various circumstances, including the treatment of rib fractures that could potentially damage underlying tissues, the management of cancer or other disorders, or the utilization of a section of a rib for a bone graft. It is important to note that the procedure does not involve cutting through the pleural membrane. The provider must carefully assess the patient’s condition and determine the appropriateness of performing the resection of ribs.

5. When to use CPT code 32900

CPT code 32900 should be used when a healthcare provider performs the resection of one or more ribs or a section of a rib. It is important to ensure that the procedure aligns with the qualifying circumstances mentioned above. However, it is crucial to consult the official documentation and guidelines to determine the appropriate usage of this code in specific clinical scenarios.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 32900, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s condition necessitating the resection of ribs
• Details of the procedure, including the specific ribs or section of rib removed
• Any additional repairs or grafts performed
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Any complications or unexpected findings
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 32900, it is important to ensure that the procedure aligns with the official description and guidelines. The healthcare provider should review the specific billing guidelines provided by the relevant coding and billing authorities to ensure accurate reporting. It is also essential to consider any additional codes that may need to be reported in conjunction with CPT 32900, as well as any modifiers that may be required.

8. Historical information

CPT 32900 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. It is important to stay updated with any changes or revisions to the code, as well as any relevant coding guidelines or regulations.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider performs the resection of a rib to repair a fracture that could potentially damage underlying tissues.
2. A patient with cancer undergoes the resection of ribs to address the disease and prevent further complications.
3. A healthcare provider utilizes a section of a rib for a bone graft during a reconstructive procedure.
4. The resection of ribs is performed to treat a rare disorder that affects the patient’s respiratory system.
5. A healthcare provider performs the resection of ribs to address a traumatic injury sustained by the patient.
6. The resection of ribs is performed to alleviate chronic pain caused by a specific condition.
7. A patient with a congenital abnormality undergoes the resection of ribs to improve their overall health and well-being.
8. A healthcare provider performs the resection of ribs to address a rare genetic disorder that affects the patient’s skeletal system.
9. The resection of ribs is performed as part of a complex surgical procedure to treat a life-threatening condition.
10. A patient with a severe infection undergoes the resection of ribs to prevent the spread of the infection to other areas of the body.