In simple words: The doctor inserts a tube with a camera into your lungs to check for air leaks. They use a small balloon to block the airway and see where the air is escaping. If they find a leak, they might use a special glue to seal it.

Bronchoscopy, rigid or flexible, including fluoroscopic guidance, when performed; with balloon occlusion, with assessment of air leak, with administration of occlusive substance (e.g., fibrin glue), if performed. (Do not report 31634 in conjunction with 31647, 31651 at the same session).

Example 1: A patient with a persistent air leak after lung surgery undergoes bronchoscopy with balloon occlusion to locate the leak and administer fibrin glue to seal it., A patient with a bronchopleural fistula undergoes bronchoscopy. The physician uses a balloon catheter to occlude the airway and assess the air leak.Fibrin glue is then instilled to close the fistula., A patient with a spontaneous pneumothorax is found to have a persistent air leak. Bronchoscopy with balloon occlusion is performed, the leak is identified, and an occlusive substance is administered.

Documentation should include details of the bronchoscopy procedure, including the use of fluoroscopy (if performed), balloon occlusion, assessment of the air leak, and administration of any occlusive substance. The location and size of the air leak should be documented, as well as the type and amount of occlusive substance used.

** As of December 1st, 2024, some payers consider this procedure to be unproven and may not reimburse for it.It's crucial to check with individual payers for their specific coverage policies.This information is current as of today's date and may be subject to change.