31628 Bronchoscopy/lung biopsy each
Also known as: transbronchial lung biopsy, bronchoscopic lung biopsy, TBLB
Bronchoscopy with transbronchial lung biopsy of lung parenchyma, using forceps or needle to obtain tissue from deeper lung structures for histopathologic diagnosis.
In Plain Language
taking lung tissue sample through breathing tube
Clinical Context
Performed for suspected pulmonary infections (tuberculosis, fungal, viral), interstitial lung disease, or malignancy when tissue diagnosis from deeper lung is needed.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.46 |
| Total RVU | 3.46 |
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 3.46, this code ranks in the 24th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.3x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 31628?
CPT 31628 (Bronchoscopy/lung biopsy each) is a Surgery code. Bronchoscopy with transbronchial lung biopsy of lung parenchyma, using forceps or needle to obtain tissue from deeper lung structures for histopathologic diagnosis.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31628?
The work RVU for CPT 31628 is 3.46. This code is primarily used by Pulmonology, Pathology, Infectious Disease.
When is CPT 31628 used?
Performed for suspected pulmonary infections (tuberculosis, fungal, viral), interstitial lung disease, or malignancy when tissue diagnosis from deeper lung is needed.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against MGMA data — all in one app.
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.