2025 CPT code 32225
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Surgery - Incision Procedures on the Lungs and Pleura Surgery Feed
Partial decortication of the lung.
Modifiers may be applicable. Modifier 59 may be used if 32225 is performed on a different lobe than a more extensive lung resection. Modifier 22 may be appended if the service is substantially more complex than typically required.
Medical necessity for 32225 is established when the patient has a documented impairment of lung function specifically due to thickening or inflammation of the pleura, restricting normal expansion. The documentation should support that the procedure is necessary to improve respiratory function and/or reduce associated symptoms.
The surgeon performs the procedure after the patient is prepped and anesthetized. This may involve a sternotomy or thoracotomy. The surgeon removes a portion of the thickened pleural membrane and may drain any fluid or pus. The incision is then closed, and the wound is dressed.
In simple words: The surgeon removes part of the thick, fibrous layer covering the lungs to help them expand more fully and improve breathing. This procedure is done when the covering has become stiff and is restricting the lungs.
This procedure involves the surgical removal of a portion of the fibrous membrane that covers the lung, known as the pleura.This is done to improve lung expansion when the membrane has become thickened or inflamed, restricting normal breathing function.It is considered a separate procedure, distinct from other lung surgeries.
Example 1: A patient with empyema experiences restricted lung expansion due to a thickened, inflamed pleura. The surgeon performs a partial decortication (32225) to remove the restrictive membrane and improve breathing., A patient with a history of tuberculosis has developed a fibrotic pleura, limiting lung capacity.Partial decortication (32225) is performed as a separate procedure to improve lung function., Following a traumatic injury to the chest, a patient develops pleural thickening that restricts lung movement. The surgeon performs a partial decortication (32225) to remove the fibrous tissue and allow for better lung expansion.
Documentation should include the operative report detailing the procedure, the reason for the partial decortication (e.g., diagnosis of pleural thickening, empyema), and any associated procedures performed. Preoperative and postoperative imaging studies may also be necessary to demonstrate the improvement in lung expansion.
- Revenue Code: P1G
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Thoracic Surgery, Cardiothoracic Surgery
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital