CPT® Code 32151

The procedure described by CPT® Code 32151 involves a thoracotomy, which is a surgical incision into the chest wall. This procedure is specifically performed to remove an intrapulmonary foreign body, which may include various types of materials that have entered the lung, such as aspirated objects or abnormal deposits like fibrin. During the thoracotomy, the surgeon makes an incision in the chest wall directly over the area where the foreign body or fibrin deposit is located. Once the incision is made, the surgeon identifies the foreign body or deposit and carefully removes it from the pleural cavity, which is the space surrounding the lungs. Following the removal, the pleural cavity is irrigated to ensure that any residual material is cleared out, promoting a clean environment for healing. In some cases, the lung may need to be collapsed temporarily, and one-lung ventilation may be initiated to facilitate the identification and removal of the foreign body. After the procedure, the lung is reinflated, and one or more chest tubes may be placed to assist with drainage and to prevent complications such as pneumothorax. Finally, the incision site is closed, completing the thoracotomy procedure.