32606 Thoracoscopy with biopsy medial space
Also known as: VATS mediastinal biopsy, thoracoscopic mediastinal sampling
Thoracoscopic biopsy of the mediastinal space, including mediastinal lymph nodes or mediastinal masses for tissue diagnosis and staging.
In Plain Language
camera biopsy of chest center
Clinical Context
Used for staging of malignancy, diagnosis of mediastinal masses, or assessment of lymph node involvement in suspected pulmonary or systemic disease.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 8.18 |
| Total RVU | 8.18 |
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 8.18, this code ranks in the 51st percentile among Surgery codes — 1.0x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 32606?
CPT 32606 (Thoracoscopy with biopsy medial space) is a Surgery code. Thoracoscopic biopsy of the mediastinal space, including mediastinal lymph nodes or mediastinal masses for tissue diagnosis and staging.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 32606?
The work RVU for CPT 32606 is 8.18. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, Oncology.
When is CPT 32606 used?
Used for staging of malignancy, diagnosis of mediastinal masses, or assessment of lymph node involvement in suspected pulmonary or systemic disease.
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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.