39000 Exploration of chest
Also known as: chest exploration, thoracotomy, thoracic exploration
Surgical exploration of the chest cavity for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. This procedure involves opening the thorax to examine mediastinal structures, lungs, and surrounding tissues.
In Plain Language
opening the chest to look inside
Clinical Context
Performed for evaluation of chest trauma, unexplained pleural effusion, hemothorax, or therapeutic procedures. Often diagnostic but may lead to definitive repair. Typically an open approach.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 7.38 |
| Total RVU | 7.38 |
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 7.38, this code ranks in the 47th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.1x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 39000?
CPT 39000 (Exploration of chest) is a Surgery code. Surgical exploration of the chest cavity for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. This procedure involves opening the thorax to examine mediastinal structures, lungs, and surrounding tissues.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 39000?
The work RVU for CPT 39000 is 7.38. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, Trauma Surgery, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 39000 used?
Performed for evaluation of chest trauma, unexplained pleural effusion, hemothorax, or therapeutic procedures. Often diagnostic but may lead to definitive repair. Typically an open approach.
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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.