32408 Core needle biopsy lng/medial percutaneous
Also known as: core lung biopsy, core needle biopsy, percutaneous core biopsy
Core needle biopsy of the lung or mediastinal structures performed via percutaneous approach, obtaining larger tissue samples than standard needle biopsy.
In Plain Language
larger lung tissue sample
Clinical Context
Used for diagnosis of lung nodules, mediastinal masses, or infiltrative lung disease when larger tissue samples are needed for accurate histological diagnosis.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.10 |
| Total RVU | 3.10 |
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 0-day global period, meaning pre- and post-operative E&M visits are billable separately on the same day. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 3.10, this code ranks in the 22nd percentile among Surgery codes — 2.6x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 32408?
CPT 32408 (Core needle biopsy lng/medial percutaneous) is a Surgery code. Core needle biopsy of the lung or mediastinal structures performed via percutaneous approach, obtaining larger tissue samples than standard needle biopsy.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 32408?
The work RVU for CPT 32408 is 3.10. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, Pulmonology, Interventional Radiology.
When is CPT 32408 used?
Used for diagnosis of lung nodules, mediastinal masses, or infiltrative lung disease when larger tissue samples are needed for accurate histological diagnosis.
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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.