32852 Lung transplant with bypass
Also known as: double lung transplant with bypass, bilateral lung transplant with CPB, DLTx with bypass
Double lung transplantation with cardiopulmonary bypass support. Surgical placement of two donor lungs into a recipient with end-stage pulmonary disease using extracorporeal circulation.
In Plain Language
transplant of two new lungs with heart-lung machine support
Clinical Context
Performed in critically ill transplant candidates requiring hemodynamic support during the procedure or in those with complex anatomy. Provides better long-term outcomes than single lung.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 63.86 |
| Total RVU | 63.86 |
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 63.86, this code ranks in the 100th percentile among Surgery codes — 8.0x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 32852?
CPT 32852 (Lung transplant with bypass) is a Surgery code. Double lung transplantation with cardiopulmonary bypass support. Surgical placement of two donor lungs into a recipient with end-stage pulmonary disease using extracorporeal circulation.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 32852?
The work RVU for CPT 32852 is 63.86. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, Transplant Surgery, Cardiothoracic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 32852 used?
Performed in critically ill transplant candidates requiring hemodynamic support during the procedure or in those with complex anatomy. Provides better long-term outcomes than single lung.
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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.