31633 Bronchoscopy/needle biopsy additional
Also known as: additional needle aspiration, supplemental TBNA
Add-on code for each additional transbronchial needle aspiration beyond the initial needle aspiration during the same bronchoscopy procedure.
In Plain Language
taking additional needle samples
Clinical Context
Used when multiple needle aspiration sites are sampled in one procedure to improve lymph node staging or diagnostic sampling.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.29 |
| Total RVU | 1.29 |
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. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 1.29, this code ranks in the 7th percentile among Surgery codes — 6.2x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 31633?
CPT 31633 (Bronchoscopy/needle biopsy additional) is a Surgery code. Add-on code for each additional transbronchial needle aspiration beyond the initial needle aspiration during the same bronchoscopy procedure.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31633?
The work RVU for CPT 31633 is 1.29. This code is primarily used by Pulmonology, Oncology, Pathology.
When is CPT 31633 used?
Used when multiple needle aspiration sites are sampled in one procedure to improve lymph node staging or diagnostic sampling.
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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.