32096 Open wedge/biopsy lung infiltr
Also known as: open lung biopsy, open wedge lung biopsy
Open wedge resection or open biopsy of the lung to diagnose or treat infiltrative parenchymal disease, including interstitial lung disease, atypical infections, or inflammatory conditions.
In Plain Language
open lung tissue sample; lung biopsy through incision
Clinical Context
Used when transbronchial biopsy or imaging is inconclusive for diagnosis of diffuse lung infiltrates, suspected fungal infection, or atypical pneumonia.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 13.41 |
| Total RVU | 13.41 |
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 13.41, this code ranks in the 69th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.7x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 32096?
CPT 32096 (Open wedge/biopsy lung infiltr) is a Surgery code. Open wedge resection or open biopsy of the lung to diagnose or treat infiltrative parenchymal disease, including interstitial lung disease, atypical infections, or inflammatory conditions.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 32096?
The work RVU for CPT 32096 is 13.41. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, Pulmonology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 32096 used?
Used when transbronchial biopsy or imaging is inconclusive for diagnosis of diffuse lung infiltrates, suspected fungal infection, or atypical pneumonia.
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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.