32556 Insert catheter pleura without image
Surgery
Global 0d
Also known as: blind catheter insertion, pleural catheter
Percutaneous insertion of a catheter into the pleural space without real-time imaging guidance, allowing prolonged drainage of pleural fluid or air.
Clinical Context
Used for pleural effusion, pneumothorax, or hemothorax requiring catheter drainage when imaging-guided approach is not immediately available.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.44 |
| Practice Expense RVU | 22.37 |
| Malpractice RVU | 0.37 |
| Total RVU | 25.18 |
Est. Medicare Payment
$841.01
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.