32110 Explore/repair chest
Also known as: exploratory thoracotomy with repair, chest exploration and repair
Surgical exploration of the chest with repair of thoracic pathology identified during the procedure, such as cardiac injury, hemorrhage control, or structural repair.
In Plain Language
chest surgery with fix
Clinical Context
Used for traumatic thoracic injury requiring both diagnostic assessment and therapeutic intervention, including injury to heart, great vessels, lung, or chest wall.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 24.65 |
| Total RVU | 24.65 |
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 24.65, this code ranks in the 88th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.1x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 32110?
CPT 32110 (Explore/repair chest) is a Surgery code. Surgical exploration of the chest with repair of thoracic pathology identified during the procedure, such as cardiac injury, hemorrhage control, or structural repair.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 32110?
The work RVU for CPT 32110 is 24.65. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, Trauma Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 32110 used?
Used for traumatic thoracic injury requiring both diagnostic assessment and therapeutic intervention, including injury to heart, great vessels, lung, or chest wall.
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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.