32608 Thoracoscopy with biopsy nodule
Also known as: VATS nodule biopsy, thoracoscopic nodule diagnosis
Thoracoscopic biopsy of a solitary pulmonary nodule, performed via minimally invasive approach when diagnosis cannot be established by imaging or bronchoscopy.
In Plain Language
camera biopsy of lung spot
Clinical Context
Used for solitary pulmonary nodules with indeterminate imaging characteristics to establish diagnosis before planned resection.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 6.67 |
| Total RVU | 6.67 |
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 6.67, this code ranks in the 44th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.2x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 32608?
CPT 32608 (Thoracoscopy with biopsy nodule) is a Surgery code. Thoracoscopic biopsy of a solitary pulmonary nodule, performed via minimally invasive approach when diagnosis cannot be established by imaging or bronchoscopy.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 32608?
The work RVU for CPT 32608 is 6.67. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, Oncology.
When is CPT 32608 used?
Used for solitary pulmonary nodules with indeterminate imaging characteristics to establish diagnosis before planned resection.
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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.