2025 CPT code 32663
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Surgery - Respiratory System Feed
Thoracoscopy, surgical; with lobectomy (single lobe).
Modifiers may be applicable in certain circumstances. For example, modifier 59 may be used to indicate a distinct procedural service.
Medical necessity must be established by demonstrating the presence of a condition requiring removal of a lung lobe, such as lung cancer, infection, or a benign tumor.The documentation should support the decision for surgical intervention and the chosen approach (VATS).Pre-authorization from the payer may be required.
The physician is responsible for performing the thoracoscopic lobectomy, including making the incisions, inserting the instruments, removing the lobe, and closing the incisions.They must also manage the patient's pre- and post-operative care.
In simple words: This procedure involves inserting a small camera and instruments into the chest through small incisions to remove a section of the lung called a lobe.
This code describes a surgical procedure performed using thoracoscopy (VATS) to remove a single lobe of the lung.It includes diagnostic thoracoscopy.
Example 1: A patient with a localized lung cancer in a single lobe undergoes a VATS lobectomy to remove the cancerous tissue., A patient with a lung abscess that has not responded to antibiotics undergoes a VATS lobectomy to remove the infected portion of the lung., A patient with a benign lung tumor undergoes a VATS lobectomy to remove the tumor.
Documentation should include the operative report detailing the procedure, the size and location of the incision(s), the instruments used, the lobe removed, and any complications encountered. Pre-operative diagnostic imaging and pathology reports should also be included to support the medical necessity of the procedure.
** As of December 1st, 2024, this information is current but subject to change. Refer to current CPT coding guidelines for the most up-to-date information.
- Revenue Code: P8I (ENDOSCOPY - OTHER)
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Thoracic Surgery, Pulmonary Medicine
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center