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CPT®
31620

CPT® Code 31620
Deleted

Official Description

Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) during bronchoscopic diagnostic or therapeutic intervention(s) (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure[s])

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 31620 refers to the procedure known as Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS) performed during bronchoscopic diagnostic or therapeutic interventions. This procedure involves the use of a miniaturized ultrasound probe that is inserted through a flexible bronchoscope, which is equipped with a biopsy channel. The EBUS is utilized in conjunction with another primary diagnostic or therapeutic bronchoscopy service, and it is important to note that this code is reported separately from the primary procedure. The primary purpose of EBUS is to evaluate the airway walls, the surrounding mediastinum, and the lungs. During the procedure, the ultrasound probe is advanced into the airway, and a balloon located at the tip of the catheter is inflated to ensure full circular contact with the airway wall. This inflation allows for enhanced visualization of the structures within the airway wall and the surrounding mediastinum. The probe is then maneuvered along the airway to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the airway and its adjacent structures, facilitating accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS) procedure, represented by CPT® Code 31620, is indicated for various clinical scenarios where detailed visualization of the airway and surrounding structures is necessary. The following conditions may warrant the use of EBUS:

  • Evaluation of Airway Abnormalities This procedure is performed to assess any abnormalities present in the airway walls, which may include tumors, strictures, or other pathological changes.
  • Assessment of Mediastinal Structures EBUS is utilized to evaluate the mediastinum, which may be affected by conditions such as lymphadenopathy or malignancies.
  • Guidance for Biopsy Procedures The ultrasound capabilities of EBUS assist in guiding biopsies of suspicious lesions or lymph nodes, ensuring accurate sampling for diagnostic purposes.
  • Monitoring of Known Conditions EBUS may be indicated for monitoring patients with known pulmonary or mediastinal diseases to assess disease progression or response to treatment.

2. Procedure

The procedure for Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS) involves several critical steps that ensure effective evaluation of the airway and surrounding structures. The following procedural steps outline the process:

  • Step 1: Preparation Prior to the procedure, the patient is positioned appropriately, and sedation is administered to ensure comfort. The flexible bronchoscope is prepared for insertion, and the ultrasound probe is checked for functionality.
  • Step 2: Insertion of the Bronchoscope The flexible bronchoscope is carefully inserted through the patient's mouth or nose and advanced into the trachea and bronchi. This step requires precision to avoid trauma to the airway.
  • Step 3: Insertion of the Ultrasound Probe Once the bronchoscope is in place, the miniaturized ultrasound probe is introduced through the biopsy channel of the bronchoscope. This probe is designed to provide real-time imaging of the airway walls and surrounding structures.
  • Step 4: Inflation of the Balloon The balloon at the tip of the ultrasound probe is inflated to achieve full circular contact with the airway wall. This inflation is crucial for obtaining clear images of the airway and mediastinal structures.
  • Step 5: Visualization and Evaluation The probe is maneuvered along the airway, allowing for comprehensive visualization of the airway walls and surrounding mediastinum. The ultrasound images are analyzed to identify any abnormalities or areas of concern.
  • Step 6: Biopsy (if indicated) If suspicious lesions or lymph nodes are identified, the procedure may include obtaining biopsies using the bronchoscope's biopsy channel, guided by the ultrasound imaging.
  • Step 7: Completion of the Procedure After the evaluation and any necessary biopsies are completed, the bronchoscope and ultrasound probe are carefully withdrawn, and the patient is monitored for recovery.

3. Post-Procedure

Following the Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS) procedure, patients are typically monitored for any immediate complications, such as bleeding or respiratory distress. It is common for patients to experience mild discomfort or a sore throat due to the bronchoscope's insertion. Recovery time may vary, but most patients can expect to resume normal activities within a short period, depending on their overall health and any additional procedures performed. Patients are advised to follow up with their healthcare provider to discuss the results of the ultrasound and any further management or treatment plans based on the findings.
Short Descr ENDOBRONCHIAL US ADD-ON
Medium Descr ENDOBRNCL US BRONCHOSCOPIC DX/THER IVNTJ
Long Descr Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) during bronchoscopic diagnostic or therapeutic intervention(s) (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure[s])
Status Code Active Code
Global Days ZZZ - Code Related to Another Service
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 0 - No payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 1 - Statutory payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Items and Services Packaged into APC Rates
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P8F - Endoscopy - bronchoscopy
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 197 - Other diagnostic ultrasound
Date
Action
Notes
2016-01-01 Deleted Deleted
2009-01-01 Changed Code description changed
2005-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 2005.
1986-12-31 Deleted Code deleted.
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