32100 Exploration of chest
Also known as: chest exploration, exploratory thoracotomy
Surgical exploration of the chest cavity (thoracotomy) performed for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes, typically when the pathology is uncertain or to assess extent of disease.
Clinical Context
Used for diagnostic thoracotomy when imaging is inconclusive, suspected complex thoracic trauma, or assessment of malignancy extent and resectability.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 13.41 |
| Practice Expense RVU | 6.55 |
| Malpractice RVU | 3.31 |
| Total RVU | 23.27 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Specialties
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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.