31648 Bronchial valve remov initial
Also known as: endobronchial valve removal, valve extraction, treatment discontinuation
Bronchoscopy with removal of endobronchial valves from the initial treatment site, performed for valve failure, repositioning, or discontinuation of therapy.
In Plain Language
removing one-way valves from lungs
Clinical Context
Performed when endobronchial valves fail, migrate, cause complications, or are electively removed when treatment is discontinued.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.85 |
| Total RVU | 3.85 |
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 3.85, this code ranks in the 26th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.1x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 31648?
CPT 31648 (Bronchial valve remov initial) is a Surgery code. Bronchoscopy with removal of endobronchial valves from the initial treatment site, performed for valve failure, repositioning, or discontinuation of therapy.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31648?
The work RVU for CPT 31648 is 3.85. This code is primarily used by Pulmonology, Interventional Pulmonology, Thoracic Surgery.
When is CPT 31648 used?
Performed when endobronchial valves fail, migrate, cause complications, or are electively removed when treatment is discontinued.
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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.