32900 Removal of rib(s)
Also known as: rib resection, rib removal, rib excision
Surgical removal of ribs, including rib resection for access to intrathoracic structures or removal of diseased rib segments. May involve single or multiple ribs.
In Plain Language
surgery to remove ribs
Clinical Context
Performed for access to mediastinal or lung structures, removal of rib tumors, or management of chronic pain syndromes. Provides wide exposure for thoracic procedures.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 23.21 |
| Total RVU | 23.21 |
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 23.21, this code ranks in the 87th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.9x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 32900?
CPT 32900 (Removal of rib(s)) is a Surgery code. Surgical removal of ribs, including rib resection for access to intrathoracic structures or removal of diseased rib segments. May involve single or multiple ribs.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 32900?
The work RVU for CPT 32900 is 23.21. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 32900 used?
Performed for access to mediastinal or lung structures, removal of rib tumors, or management of chronic pain syndromes. Provides wide exposure for thoracic procedures.
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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.