32674 Thoracoscopy lymph node excision
Also known as: thoracoscopic lymph node dissection, VATS lymph node excision, endoscopic lymphadenectomy
Thoracoscopic excision of mediastinal and/or hilar lymph nodes. Performed via minimally invasive thoracoscopic approach to remove lymph node tissue from the central chest cavity for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.
In Plain Language
camera-assisted removal of chest lymph nodes; minimally invasive lymph node surgery
Clinical Context
Used for staging lung cancer or mediastinal malignancies through pathological examination of lymph nodes. Helps determine cancer extent and guides treatment planning.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.02 |
| Total RVU | 4.02 |
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. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 4.02, this code ranks in the 28th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.0x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 32674?
CPT 32674 (Thoracoscopy lymph node excision) is a Surgery code. Thoracoscopic excision of mediastinal and/or hilar lymph nodes. Performed via minimally invasive thoracoscopic approach to remove lymph node tissue from the central chest cavity for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 32674?
The work RVU for CPT 32674 is 4.02. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, Oncology, Pulmonology.
When is CPT 32674 used?
Used for staging lung cancer or mediastinal malignancies through pathological examination of lymph nodes. Helps determine cancer extent and guides 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.