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CPT®
32402

CPT® Code 32402
Deleted

Code deleted, see 32098

Official Description

Biopsy, pleura; open

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 32402 refers to an open biopsy of the pleura, which is the membrane lining the lungs and the chest wall. This procedure is performed to obtain a tissue sample from the pleura for diagnostic purposes. The process begins with the selection of an appropriate access site, followed by cleansing the skin to minimize the risk of infection. A local anesthetic is then administered to numb the area from the skin down to the pleural level, ensuring patient comfort during the procedure. A small incision is made to allow for the insertion of a biopsy needle into the pleural space. The needle, equipped with a cutting edge, is carefully positioned to penetrate the pleura, where a tissue sample is collected. It is important to note that multiple passes with the needle may be necessary to secure an adequate sample for analysis. In cases where an open technique is employed, an intercostal incision is made directly over the biopsy site, allowing for direct access to the pleura. After the tissue sample is obtained, a chest tube is typically placed to facilitate drainage, and the operative wound is subsequently closed around the chest tube to promote healing and prevent complications.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The open biopsy of the pleura, as described by CPT® Code 32402, is indicated for various clinical scenarios where tissue sampling is necessary for diagnosis. The following conditions may warrant this procedure:

  • Suspected Pleural Disease - When there is a suspicion of malignancy or other pathological conditions affecting the pleura.
  • Pleural Effusion - In cases of unexplained pleural effusion, where fluid accumulation in the pleural space requires further investigation.
  • Infectious Processes - To evaluate for infections such as tuberculosis or other infectious diseases that may involve the pleura.
  • Inflammatory Conditions - When there is a need to assess inflammatory diseases affecting the pleura, such as pleuritis or mesothelioma.

2. Procedure

The procedure for an open pleural biopsy involves several critical steps to ensure successful tissue acquisition. The following outlines the procedural steps:

  • Step 1: Site Selection and Preparation The physician selects an appropriate site for the biopsy, typically based on imaging studies or physical examination findings. The skin over the selected site is thoroughly cleansed to reduce the risk of infection.
  • Step 2: Anesthesia Administration A local anesthetic is administered to numb the area from the skin down to the pleural level, ensuring that the patient experiences minimal discomfort during the procedure.
  • Step 3: Incision and Needle Insertion A small incision is made at the biopsy site to facilitate the insertion of the biopsy needle. The needle is carefully inserted into the pleural space, with the cutting edge positioned to penetrate the pleura and obtain a tissue sample.
  • Step 4: Tissue Sample Acquisition The physician may need to make multiple passes with the needle to secure an adequate tissue sample for diagnostic analysis. Each pass is performed with precision to ensure the best possible sample is obtained.
  • Step 5: Chest Tube Placement Following the acquisition of the tissue sample, a chest tube is placed to allow for drainage of any fluid that may accumulate in the pleural space post-procedure.
  • Step 6: Wound Closure The operative wound is then closed around the chest tube, ensuring that the site is secure and promoting healing while minimizing the risk of complications.

3. Post-Procedure

After the open pleural biopsy, patients are typically monitored for any immediate complications, such as bleeding or infection. The placement of a chest tube may require additional care to ensure proper drainage and prevent pneumothorax. Patients may experience some discomfort at the incision site, which can be managed with appropriate pain relief measures. Follow-up appointments are essential to assess the biopsy results and to monitor the patient's recovery. It is important for healthcare providers to provide clear instructions regarding wound care and signs of potential complications that patients should be aware of following the procedure.
Short Descr OPEN BIOPSY CHEST LINING
Medium Descr BIOPSY PLEURA OPEN
Long Descr Biopsy, pleura; open
Status Code Active Code
Global Days 090 - Major Surgery
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 2 - Standard payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 2 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery does not apply to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 1 - Co-surgeons could be paid, though supporting documentation is required...
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Discontinued Code
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) none
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 40 - Other diagnostic procedures of respiratory tract and mediastinum
Date
Action
Notes
2012-01-01 Deleted Code deleted, see 32098
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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