2025 CPT code 32505
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Surgery - Lung Resection Surgery Feed
Thoracotomy with therapeutic wedge resection of lung tissue (e.g., mass, nodule), initial resection.
Modifiers may be applicable depending on circumstances (e.g., modifier 59 for distinct procedural service).
Medical necessity is established by the presence of a lung mass, nodule, or other lesion that requires surgical removal for diagnosis or treatment. The extent of resection should be justified by the findings of preoperative imaging and intraoperative pathology (if applicable).
The surgeon is responsible for performing the thoracotomy, wedge resection, and closure. Anesthesiologists manage anesthesia.Other surgical staff (e.g., nurses, surgical assistants) assist.Pathologists examine the resected tissue.
In simple words: The doctor makes an incision in the chest to remove a wedge-shaped piece of lung tissue containing a lump or abnormal area. This is the first part of the operation to remove the problem tissue.If more needs to be removed, other codes will apply.
This CPT code describes an open surgical procedure involving a thoracotomy (incision into the chest wall) to perform a therapeutic wedge resection of lung tissue.A wedge-shaped portion of lung containing a mass, nodule, or other abnormality is removed. This code is specifically for the initial wedge resection; subsequent resections during the same procedure are coded differently (32506).The procedure aims to completely resect the abnormality, with attention paid to margins.Intraoperative pathology consultation may influence the extent of resection, potentially leading to a different code if further resection is necessary in the same location.
Example 1: A patient presents with a suspicious lung nodule detected on CT scan.A thoracotomy is performed, and a wedge resection of the nodule is completed. Pathology confirms malignancy, but no further resection is needed. Code 32505 is used., A patient presents with a large lung mass.A thoracotomy and wedge resection are done. Intraoperative pathology indicates that a lobectomy is necessary. Codes 32507 and the appropriate lobectomy code are reported., A patient has multiple nodules in both lungs. A thoracotomy with wedge resection of a nodule in the right lung is performed.A separate thoracotomy with wedge resection of a nodule in the left lung is also performed at the same time.Code 32505 with modifier 59 is used for each resection.
* Preoperative imaging (e.g., CT scan, X-ray) showing the location and size of the lesion.* Operative report detailing the incision, resection technique, amount of tissue removed, and assessment of margins.* Pathology report confirming the nature of the resected tissue.* Anesthesia record.* Postoperative recovery notes.
** This code is used for the initial therapeutic wedge resection of a lung lesion via thoracotomy. Subsequent resections in the same operative session require a different code.Intraoperative pathology consultation may significantly impact the appropriate coding selection. Always consult current CPT guidelines for the most accurate and up-to-date coding practices.
- Revenue Code: P1G (MAJOR PROCEDURE - OTHER)
- RVU: This information requires access to a current fee schedule, which is not included in the provided text. RVUs vary based on geographic location and payer.
- Global Days: The global period for this procedure would vary based on payer and other factors; further information on this must be obtained from payer guidelines.
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: Not applicable for this open surgical procedure.
- Fee Schedule: Fee schedules are not provided in the source materials.Consult a current fee schedule appropriate for the payer and geographic location.
- Specialties:Thoracic Surgery
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center