Coding Ahead
CasePilot
Medical Coding Assistant
Case2Code
Search and Code Lookup Tool
CareerCenter
Medical Coding Job Board
Log in Register free account

Need help choosing the right code?

Ask CasePilot about procedures, modifiers, bundling, and coding guidance.

Try CasePilot
CPT®
32420

CPT® Code 32420
Deleted

Code deleted, see 32405

Official Description

Pneumocentesis, puncture of lung for aspiration

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

Pneumocentesis, also known as lung puncture, is a medical procedure that involves the aspiration of fluid from the lung. This procedure is typically performed when there is an accumulation of fluid in the pleural space, which can occur due to various medical conditions such as infections, malignancies, or inflammatory diseases. During pneumocentesis, a local anesthetic is administered to minimize discomfort for the patient. A needle is then carefully inserted through the chest wall and into the lung tissue to access the fluid. Once the needle is in place, fluid is withdrawn and collected for further analysis, often sent for pathology examination to determine the underlying cause of the fluid accumulation. This procedure is crucial for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, allowing healthcare providers to assess the nature of the fluid and relieve symptoms associated with fluid buildup in the lungs.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

Pneumocentesis is indicated for the following conditions:

  • Fluid Accumulation The procedure is performed when there is a significant buildup of fluid in the pleural space, which may be due to various underlying medical conditions.
  • Diagnostic Purposes Pneumocentesis is utilized to obtain fluid samples for laboratory analysis to identify infections, malignancies, or other pathological conditions.
  • Therapeutic Relief The procedure can also provide symptomatic relief by removing excess fluid that may be causing respiratory distress or discomfort.

2. Procedure

The pneumocentesis procedure involves several key steps to ensure safety and effectiveness:

  • Preparation The patient is positioned appropriately, often sitting upright, to facilitate access to the pleural space. The area where the needle will be inserted is cleaned and sterilized to prevent infection.
  • Administration of Local Anesthetic A local anesthetic is injected into the skin and underlying tissues at the puncture site to minimize pain during the procedure.
  • Needle Insertion A needle is carefully inserted through the chest wall, guided by anatomical landmarks or imaging techniques, to reach the pleural space. The clinician must ensure that the needle is positioned correctly to avoid injury to surrounding structures.
  • Fluid Aspiration Once the needle is in the appropriate location, fluid is aspirated into a syringe. The amount of fluid withdrawn may vary depending on the clinical situation and the volume of fluid present.
  • Sample Collection The aspirated fluid is then transferred to sterile containers for laboratory analysis, which may include cytology, microbiology, and biochemical tests.
  • Post-Procedure Care After the procedure, the needle is removed, and pressure is applied to the puncture site to minimize bleeding. The patient is monitored for any immediate complications.

3. Post-Procedure

Following pneumocentesis, patients are typically monitored for any adverse effects, such as bleeding or pneumothorax. It is important to observe the puncture site for signs of infection or excessive swelling. Patients may be advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a short period. The results of the fluid analysis will guide further management and treatment decisions based on the underlying cause of the fluid accumulation.
Short Descr PUNCTURE/CLEAR LUNG
Medium Descr PNEUMOCENTESIS PUNCTURE LUNG ASPIRATION
Long Descr Pneumocentesis, puncture of lung for aspiration
Status Code Active Code
Global Days 000 - Endoscopic or Minor Procedure
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) 1 - Statutory payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
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 42 - Other OR therapeutic procedures on respiratory system
Date
Action
Notes
2013-01-01 Deleted Code deleted, see 32405
2013-01-01 Changed Short and Medium Descriptors changed.
2002-01-01 Changed Code description changed.
1990-01-01 Added Code added
Code
Description
Code
Description
Code
Description
CasePilot

Get instant expert-level medical coding assistance.

Ask about:
CPT Codes Guidelines Modifiers Crosswalks NCCI Edits Compliance Medicare Coverage
Example: "What is CPT code 99213?" or "Guidelines for E/M services"