32552 Remove lung catheter
Also known as: chest tube removal, catheter removal
Percutaneous removal of an indwelling pleural catheter or thoracostomy tube, including removal of the device and assessment of drainage adequacy.
In Plain Language
removal of chest drain
Clinical Context
Used when pleural drainage is no longer needed, typically after resolution of pneumothorax, adequate fluid drainage, or patient tolerance of catheter.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.47 |
| Total RVU | 2.47 |
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 10-day global period — follow-up visits within 10 days of the procedure are included in the reimbursement. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 2.47, this code ranks in the 17th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.2x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 32552?
CPT 32552 (Remove lung catheter) is a Surgery code. Percutaneous removal of an indwelling pleural catheter or thoracostomy tube, including removal of the device and assessment of drainage adequacy.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 32552?
The work RVU for CPT 32552 is 2.47. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 32552 used?
Used when pleural drainage is no longer needed, typically after resolution of pneumothorax, adequate fluid drainage, or patient tolerance of catheter.
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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.