32554 Aspirate pleura without imaging
Also known as: thoracentesis, pleural aspiration, pleural tap
Percutaneous aspiration of the pleural space without concurrent imaging guidance, performed to obtain fluid samples or provide symptomatic relief from pleural effusion.
Clinical Context
Used for diagnostic thoracentesis or therapeutic drainage of pleural effusion when imaging-guided approach is not needed or when bedside procedure is appropriate.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.77 |
| Practice Expense RVU | 5.82 |
| Malpractice RVU | 0.21 |
| Total RVU | 7.80 |
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.