© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.
The procedure described by CPT® Code 32201 refers to a pneumonostomy performed with the percutaneous drainage of an abscess or cyst located within the lung tissue. In simpler terms, this procedure involves the physician making an incision in the chest wall to access and drain fluid from a cyst or an abscess, which is a pus-filled sac that can form in the lung. The physician first identifies the location of the cyst or abscess, then incises the area to allow for drainage of the accumulated fluid. This drainage is crucial for alleviating symptoms and preventing further complications associated with the presence of the cyst or abscess. During the procedure, the skin is thoroughly cleansed, and a local anesthetic is administered to minimize discomfort for the patient. In some cases, imaging guidance such as fluoroscopy, ultrasound, or CT scans may be utilized to accurately locate the cyst or abscess prior to drainage. The drainage can be performed using a catheter with a sheath or a needle, which is inserted through the chest wall directly into the lung at the site of the cyst or abscess. After the fluid is drained, the wound may be temporarily left open, and a drainage tube may be placed to facilitate further fluid removal if necessary.
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