32554 Aspirate pleura without imaging
Also known as: thoracentesis, pleural aspiration, pleural tap, chest tap, pleural fluid drainage
Percutaneous aspiration of the pleural space without concurrent imaging guidance, performed to obtain fluid samples or provide symptomatic relief from pleural effusion.
In Plain Language
chest fluid removal with needle
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 |
| Total RVU | 1.77 |
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 1.77, this code ranks in the 12th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.5x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 32554?
CPT 32554 (Aspirate pleura without imaging) is a Surgery code. Percutaneous aspiration of the pleural space without concurrent imaging guidance, performed to obtain fluid samples or provide symptomatic relief from pleural effusion.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 32554?
The work RVU for CPT 32554 is 1.77. This code is primarily used by Pulmonology, Thoracic Surgery.
When is CPT 32554 used?
Used for diagnostic thoracentesis or therapeutic drainage of pleural effusion when imaging-guided approach is not needed or when bedside procedure is appropriate.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against MGMA data — all in one app.
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.