32820 Reconstruct injured chest
Also known as: chest wall reconstruction, rib fracture repair, flail chest stabilization
Surgical reconstruction of the chest wall following trauma, including repair of fractured ribs, sternal fractures, and soft tissue injuries. Restoration of chest wall stability and function.
In Plain Language
surgery to fix broken ribs and chest bones
Clinical Context
Used in trauma patients with multiple rib fractures, sternal fractures, or chest wall instability causing pain and respiratory compromise. Improves pulmonary mechanics and healing.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 21.95 |
| Total RVU | 21.95 |
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 21.95, this code ranks in the 85th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.7x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 32820?
CPT 32820 (Reconstruct injured chest) is a Surgery code. Surgical reconstruction of the chest wall following trauma, including repair of fractured ribs, sternal fractures, and soft tissue injuries. Restoration of chest wall stability and function.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 32820?
The work RVU for CPT 32820 is 21.95. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, Trauma Surgery, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 32820 used?
Used in trauma patients with multiple rib fractures, sternal fractures, or chest wall instability causing pain and respiratory compromise. Improves pulmonary mechanics and healing.
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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.