CPT® Code 31628

Bronchoscopy, rigid or flexible, including fluoroscopic guidance, when performed; with transbronchial lung biopsy(s), single lobe

A bronchoscopy is a medical procedure that involves the insertion of a bronchoscope, which can be either rigid or flexible, through the nose or mouth and into the respiratory tract. This procedure allows for direct visualization of the airways, including the trachea and bronchi, to assess for any abnormalities. Fluoroscopic guidance may be utilized during the procedure to enhance the visualization of the structures being examined. The bronchoscope is advanced through the oropharynx, where the vocal cords are also visualized. Following this, the bronchoscope is further advanced into the trachea and into each mainstem bronchus, allowing for a thorough examination of the airways. If a rigid bronchoscope is employed, a telescope or flexible bronchoscope can be inserted through it to provide a clearer view of the distal segments of the bronchi. During the procedure, transbronchial biopsy forceps are used to obtain tissue samples from the outer regions of the lung, specifically from a single lobe. This procedure is essential for diagnosing various lung conditions, as it enables the collection of tissue samples for further analysis.