32555 Aspirate pleura with imaging
Also known as: image-guided thoracentesis, ultrasound-guided tap
Percutaneous aspiration of the pleural space with real-time ultrasound or imaging guidance, providing enhanced safety and accuracy for fluid sampling or drainage.
Clinical Context
Used for diagnostic or therapeutic thoracentesis when imaging guidance improves safety, particularly for loculated effusions or difficult anatomic situations.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.21 |
| Practice Expense RVU | 6.88 |
| Malpractice RVU | 0.22 |
| Total RVU | 9.31 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Specialties
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.