32220 Release of lung
Also known as: decortication, lung decortication, pleural stripping
Surgical release or mobilization of the entire visceral pleura and lung surface (decortication), performed to restore lung expansion in restrictive lung disease.
Clinical Context
Used for restrictive pleurisy, chronic empyema with thick pleural peel, hemothorax with fibrothorax, or pulmonary artery stenosis causing restriction.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 25.98 |
| Practice Expense RVU | 13.61 |
| Malpractice RVU | 6.47 |
| Total RVU | 46.06 |
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.