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.
In Plain Language
ultrasound-guided chest fluid removal
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 |
| Total RVU | 2.21 |
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 2.21, this code ranks in the 15th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.6x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 32555?
CPT 32555 (Aspirate pleura with imaging) is a Surgery code. Percutaneous aspiration of the pleural space with real-time ultrasound or imaging guidance, providing enhanced safety and accuracy for fluid sampling or drainage.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 32555?
The work RVU for CPT 32555 is 2.21. This code is primarily used by Pulmonology, Interventional Radiology.
When is CPT 32555 used?
Used for diagnostic or therapeutic thoracentesis when imaging guidance improves safety, particularly for loculated effusions or difficult anatomic situations.
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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.