31623 Diagnosis bronchoscope/brush
Also known as: diagnostic bronchoscopy with brush, brush cytology, bronchial brush biopsy, bronchoscopy with brushing
Diagnostic bronchoscopy with brush cytology, using a specialized brush to sample cells from bronchial mucosa for microscopic examination and diagnosis of mucosal pathology.
In Plain Language
brushing airways to collect cells
Clinical Context
Performed to obtain cell samples from airway mucosa for cytologic examination when malignancy or infection is suspected. Less invasive than tissue biopsy.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.56 |
| Total RVU | 2.56 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. This code has a 0-day global period, meaning pre- and post-operative E&M visits are billable separately on the same day. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 2.56, this code ranks in the 18th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.1x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 31623?
CPT 31623 (Diagnosis bronchoscope/brush) is a Surgery code. Diagnostic bronchoscopy with brush cytology, using a specialized brush to sample cells from bronchial mucosa for microscopic examination and diagnosis of mucosal pathology.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31623?
The work RVU for CPT 31623 is 2.56. This code is primarily used by Pulmonology, Cytopathology, Oncology.
When is CPT 31623 used?
Performed to obtain cell samples from airway mucosa for cytologic examination when malignancy or infection is suspected. Less invasive than tissue biopsy.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.