Question:
What code is reported for aspiration/drainage procedures?
Answer:
When billing for aspiration/drainage procedures, CPT® code 31645 is reported for the initial procedure and 31646 is reported for each subsequent procedure.
| 31645 | Bronchoscopy, rigid or flexible, including fluoroscopic guidance, when performed; with therapeutic aspiration of tracheobronchial tree, initial (e.g., drainage of lung abscess) |
| 31646 | Bronchoscopy, rigid or flexible, including fluoroscopic guidance, when performed; with therapeutic aspiration of tracheobronchial tree, subsequent |
CPT codes 31652–31654 for endobronchial ultrasound (UBUS) procedures are to be reported once per session.
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Fee schedules, relative value units, conversion factors and/or related components are not assigned by the AMA, are not part of CPT, and the AMA is not recommending their use. The AMA does not directly or indirectly practice medicine or dispense medical services. The AMA assumes no liability for data contained or not contained herein.
CPT is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association.
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