32601 Thoracoscopy diagnostic
Also known as: diagnostic thoracoscopy, VATS diagnostic
Diagnostic thoracoscopy (video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery - VATS) performed to visualize intrathoracic structures and obtain diagnostic information without therapeutic intervention.
In Plain Language
camera surgery to look inside chest
Clinical Context
Used for diagnosis of pleural effusion, suspected malignancy, or mediastinal disease when imaging is nondiagnostic and biopsy is needed.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 5.36 |
| Total RVU | 5.36 |
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 5.36, this code ranks in the 36th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.5x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 32601?
CPT 32601 (Thoracoscopy diagnostic) is a Surgery code. Diagnostic thoracoscopy (video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery - VATS) performed to visualize intrathoracic structures and obtain diagnostic information without therapeutic intervention.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 32601?
The work RVU for CPT 32601 is 5.36. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, Pulmonology.
When is CPT 32601 used?
Used for diagnosis of pleural effusion, suspected malignancy, or mediastinal disease when imaging is nondiagnostic and biopsy is needed.
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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.