31629 Bronchoscopy/needle biopsy each
Also known as: transbronchial needle aspiration, TBNA, bronchial needle biopsy
Bronchoscopy with transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA) of lung tissue or mediastinal structures, using a needle to sample tissue through the bronchial wall.
In Plain Language
using needle through scope to get lung samples
Clinical Context
Performed for sampling mediastinal lymph nodes, lung masses, or peripheral lung lesions. Useful for lymph node staging in lung cancer and infection workup.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.66 |
| Total RVU | 3.66 |
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 3.66, this code ranks in the 25th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.2x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 31629?
CPT 31629 (Bronchoscopy/needle biopsy each) is a Surgery code. Bronchoscopy with transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA) of lung tissue or mediastinal structures, using a needle to sample tissue through the bronchial wall.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31629?
The work RVU for CPT 31629 is 3.66. This code is primarily used by Pulmonology, Oncology, Pathology.
When is CPT 31629 used?
Performed for sampling mediastinal lymph nodes, lung masses, or peripheral lung lesions. Useful for lymph node staging in lung cancer and infection workup.
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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.