32609 Thoracoscopy with biopsy pleura
Also known as: VATS pleural biopsy, thoracoscopic pleural biopsy
Thoracoscopic biopsy of the pleura, including both parietal and/or visceral pleural tissue for diagnosis of pleural pathology including malignancy.
In Plain Language
camera biopsy of lung lining
Clinical Context
Used for diagnosis of pleural disease when pleural involvement is suspected and tissue diagnosis is necessary for treatment planning.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.47 |
| Total RVU | 4.47 |
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 4.47, this code ranks in the 30th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.8x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 32609?
CPT 32609 (Thoracoscopy with biopsy pleura) is a Surgery code. Thoracoscopic biopsy of the pleura, including both parietal and/or visceral pleural tissue for diagnosis of pleural pathology including malignancy.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 32609?
The work RVU for CPT 32609 is 4.47. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, Oncology.
When is CPT 32609 used?
Used for diagnosis of pleural disease when pleural involvement is suspected and tissue diagnosis is necessary for treatment planning.
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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.