32557 Insert catheter pleura with image
Also known as: image-guided catheter insertion, ultrasound-guided catheter
Percutaneous insertion of a catheter into the pleural space with real-time ultrasound or imaging guidance, ensuring accurate placement and minimizing complications.
Clinical Context
Used for pleural drainage requiring catheter placement when imaging guidance improves accuracy and safety, particularly for loculated effusions.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.04 |
| Practice Expense RVU | 16.03 |
| Malpractice RVU | 0.33 |
| Total RVU | 19.40 |
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.