32815 Close bronchial fistula
Also known as: bronchopleural fistula closure, tracheopleural fistula repair, fistula closure
Surgical closure of a bronchopleural or tracheopleural fistula, an abnormal communication between the airway and pleural space. Involves reconstruction to prevent air and fluid leakage.
In Plain Language
repair of abnormal airway-to-lung connection
Clinical Context
Used to treat complications following lung resection, pneumonectomy, or trauma that result in communication between airways and pleural space, causing infection and respiratory compromise.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 48.78 |
| Total RVU | 48.78 |
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 48.78, this code ranks in the 99th percentile among Surgery codes — 6.1x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 32815?
CPT 32815 (Close bronchial fistula) is a Surgery code. Surgical closure of a bronchopleural or tracheopleural fistula, an abnormal communication between the airway and pleural space. Involves reconstruction to prevent air and fluid leakage.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 32815?
The work RVU for CPT 32815 is 48.78. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 32815 used?
Used to treat complications following lung resection, pneumonectomy, or trauma that result in communication between airways and pleural space, causing infection and respiratory compromise.
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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.