32653 Thoracoscopy remov foreign body/fibrin
Also known as: VATS foreign body removal, thoracoscopic fibrin removal
Thoracoscopic removal of foreign body or fibrin deposits from the pleural cavity, performed to improve pleural drainage and prevent loculation.
In Plain Language
camera removal of debris from chest
Clinical Context
Used for complicated parapneumonic effusion, empyema, or hemothorax with fibrin loculations when thoracoscopic approach facilitates removal.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 17.72 |
| Total RVU | 17.72 |
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 90-day global period, which includes the day of the procedure, 1 day preoperative, and 90 days of postoperative care. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 17.72, this code ranks in the 79th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 32653?
CPT 32653 (Thoracoscopy remov foreign body/fibrin) is a Surgery code. Thoracoscopic removal of foreign body or fibrin deposits from the pleural cavity, performed to improve pleural drainage and prevent loculation.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 32653?
The work RVU for CPT 32653 is 17.72. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, Pulmonology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 32653 used?
Used for complicated parapneumonic effusion, empyema, or hemothorax with fibrin loculations when thoracoscopic approach facilitates removal.
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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.