32036 Thoracostomy with flap drainage
Also known as: thoracostomy with flap drainage, flap dependent drainage
Surgical opening of the chest cavity (thoracostomy) with creation of a flap-based drainage approach, providing dependent drainage for chronic empyema or pleural space infection.
In Plain Language
chest opening with draining flap
Clinical Context
Used for chronic empyema, bronchopleural fistula, or extensive pleural space infection requiring flap-based open drainage for prolonged healing.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 11.99 |
| Total RVU | 11.99 |
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 90-day global period, which includes the day of the procedure, 1 day preoperative, and 90 days of postoperative care. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 11.99, this code ranks in the 65th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.5x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 32036?
CPT 32036 (Thoracostomy with flap drainage) is a Surgery code. Surgical opening of the chest cavity (thoracostomy) with creation of a flap-based drainage approach, providing dependent drainage for chronic empyema or pleural space infection.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 32036?
The work RVU for CPT 32036 is 11.99. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 32036 used?
Used for chronic empyema, bronchopleural fistula, or extensive pleural space infection requiring flap-based open drainage for prolonged healing.
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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.