32486 Sleeve lobectomy
Also known as: sleeve lobectomy, bronchial sleeve lobectomy
Sleeve lobectomy combining lobectomy with bronchial and/or pulmonary vessel reconstruction, allowing central airway resection while preserving distal lung parenchyma.
In Plain Language
lobe removal with airway repair
Clinical Context
Used for centrally located lung cancers within a lobar bronchus, allowing cancer resection while preserving remaining lobar tissue.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 41.81 |
| Total RVU | 41.81 |
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 41.81, this code ranks in the 97th percentile among Surgery codes — 5.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 32486?
CPT 32486 (Sleeve lobectomy) is a Surgery code. Sleeve lobectomy combining lobectomy with bronchial and/or pulmonary vessel reconstruction, allowing central airway resection while preserving distal lung parenchyma.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 32486?
The work RVU for CPT 32486 is 41.81. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, Oncology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 32486 used?
Used for centrally located lung cancers within a lobar bronchus, allowing cancer resection while preserving remaining lobar tissue.
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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.