32098 Open biopsy of lung pleura
Also known as: open lung and pleural biopsy, combined lung-pleura biopsy
Open biopsy of the lung parenchyma and pleura performed together to evaluate pleural and parenchymal pathology, useful for diagnosis of diffuse lung disease with pleural involvement.
In Plain Language
lung and lining tissue sample
Clinical Context
Used when both pulmonary parenchymal and pleural disease require histological diagnosis, including suspected malignancy with pleural involvement or granulomatous disease.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 12.59 |
| Total RVU | 12.59 |
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 12.59, this code ranks in the 66th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.6x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 32098?
CPT 32098 (Open biopsy of lung pleura) is a Surgery code. Open biopsy of the lung parenchyma and pleura performed together to evaluate pleural and parenchymal pathology, useful for diagnosis of diffuse lung disease with pleural involvement.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 32098?
The work RVU for CPT 32098 is 12.59. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, Pulmonology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 32098 used?
Used when both pulmonary parenchymal and pleural disease require histological diagnosis, including suspected malignancy with pleural involvement or granulomatous disease.
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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.