32151 Remove lung foreign body
Also known as: lung foreign body removal, FB removal from lung
Surgical removal of a foreign body from the lung parenchyma or pleural space, performed to extract aspirated or inhaled materials, bullets, or other extraneous objects.
In Plain Language
removal of swallowed or inhaled object
Clinical Context
Used for aspiration of foreign objects, food particles, tooth fragments, prosthetic components, or traumatic penetrating injuries with embedded objects.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 16.52 |
| Total RVU | 16.52 |
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 16.52, this code ranks in the 76th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.1x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 32151?
CPT 32151 (Remove lung foreign body) is a Surgery code. Surgical removal of a foreign body from the lung parenchyma or pleural space, performed to extract aspirated or inhaled materials, bullets, or other extraneous objects.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 32151?
The work RVU for CPT 32151 is 16.52. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, Trauma Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 32151 used?
Used for aspiration of foreign objects, food particles, tooth fragments, prosthetic components, or traumatic penetrating injuries with embedded objects.
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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.