32810 Close chest after drainage
Also known as: chest closure after drainage, thoracotomy closure, pleural cavity closure
Closure of chest after drainage of pleural fluid or air collection. Surgical closure of thoracotomy or chest tube sites following drainage procedures.
In Plain Language
closing chest after fluid removal
Clinical Context
Performed after drainage of pneumothorax, hemothorax, or pleural effusion to restore chest wall integrity and respiratory mechanics. Ensures complete healing of thoracotomy.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 14.58 |
| Total RVU | 14.58 |
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 14.58, this code ranks in the 72nd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.8x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 32810?
CPT 32810 (Close chest after drainage) is a Surgery code. Closure of chest after drainage of pleural fluid or air collection. Surgical closure of thoracotomy or chest tube sites following drainage procedures.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 32810?
The work RVU for CPT 32810 is 14.58. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 32810 used?
Performed after drainage of pneumothorax, hemothorax, or pleural effusion to restore chest wall integrity and respiratory mechanics. Ensures complete healing of thoracotomy.
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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.