31717 Bronchial brush biopsy
Also known as: bronchial brush biopsy, brushing biopsy, airway brush sampling
Bronchoscopy with brush biopsy of bronchial or lung tissue using a specialized brush to obtain cellular material for histologic or cytologic examination.
In Plain Language
brushing inside lungs to collect cells
Clinical Context
Performed for suspected malignancy, infections, or inflammatory conditions when cellular sampling is needed for diagnosis.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.07 |
| Total RVU | 2.07 |
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 2.07, this code ranks in the 14th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.9x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 31717?
CPT 31717 (Bronchial brush biopsy) is a Surgery code. Bronchoscopy with brush biopsy of bronchial or lung tissue using a specialized brush to obtain cellular material for histologic or cytologic examination.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31717?
The work RVU for CPT 31717 is 2.07. This code is primarily used by Pulmonology, Pathology, Oncology.
When is CPT 31717 used?
Performed for suspected malignancy, infections, or inflammatory conditions when cellular sampling is needed for diagnosis.
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.