CPT® Code 31633

Add-On Code

Bronchoscopy, rigid or flexible, including fluoroscopic guidance, when performed; with transbronchial needle aspiration biopsy(s), each additional lobe (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

The procedure described by CPT® Code 31633 involves the use of a bronchoscope, which can be either rigid or flexible, to perform a detailed examination of the airways. This procedure includes fluoroscopic guidance, which is a type of imaging that allows real-time visualization of the bronchoscope's position within the respiratory tract. The bronchoscope is inserted through the nose or mouth and is advanced into the oropharynx, where the physician can examine the area for any abnormalities. The vocal cords are also visualized during this process. Following this initial examination, the bronchoscope is further advanced into the trachea, allowing for a thorough inspection of the trachea and the mainstem bronchi. If a rigid bronchoscope is utilized, a telescope or a flexible bronchoscope may be inserted through it to enhance visualization of the distal segments of the mainstem bronchi. This is crucial for identifying any lesions or abnormalities that may not be visible with a standard bronchoscope. The procedure also includes the use of a catheter equipped with a flexible needle tip, which is introduced to perform transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA) biopsy. This technique allows for the collection of tissue samples from the trachea, main stem bronchus, or lobar bronchus. The TBNA needle is carefully maneuvered to the biopsy site, and suction is applied while the needle is agitated to collect cells for biopsy. The procedure is designed to report one or more tissue samples obtained from each additional lobe, following the primary tissue sample taken from the first lobe, which is reported separately. This comprehensive approach ensures that multiple sites can be biopsied during a single session, enhancing diagnostic accuracy and efficiency.