CPT® Code 32225

The procedure described by CPT® Code 32225 refers to a surgical intervention known as pulmonary decortication, specifically a partial decortication performed as a separate procedure. This operation is indicated when there is a thickened layer of fibrin, often referred to as a rind or peel, that has formed on the outer pleural surface of the lung. The presence of this thickened fibrin layer can restrict the lung's ability to expand fully, leading to compromised respiratory function. During the procedure, the surgeon makes a posterolateral incision in the chest, typically at the fifth or sixth intercostal space, to gain access to the lung. Once exposed, the surgeon carefully incises the thickened fibrin layer to identify the appropriate decortication plane. The fibrin layer is then meticulously grasped and dissected away from the underlying visceral pleura, ensuring that all areas of the lung encased by the thickened tissue are addressed. Following the decortication, one or more chest tubes are placed to facilitate drainage, and the incision site is subsequently closed. This procedure is specifically coded as 32225 when the decortication involves only a portion of the lung.