CPT® Code 32553

Placement of interstitial device(s) for radiation therapy guidance (eg, fiducial markers, dosimeter), percutaneous, intra-thoracic, single or multiple

The CPT® Code 32553 refers to the placement of interstitial device(s) for radiation therapy guidance, specifically fiducial markers or dosimeters, through a percutaneous approach within the intra-thoracic region. Fiducial markers, often made of gold, are small seeds that are strategically implanted in or around soft tissue tumors located in the thorax. This procedure is typically performed prior to stereotactic radiosurgical treatment, which is a precise form of radiation therapy used to target thoracic tumors, most commonly malignant neoplasms of the lung. The primary purpose of these fiducial markers is to serve as anatomical landmarks, enabling healthcare providers to accurately define the tumor and its borders during treatment. The placement of these markers is crucial for ensuring that the radiation is delivered precisely to the tumor while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. Prior to the placement of fiducial markers, imaging studies, which are reported separately, are conducted to locate the tumor and determine the optimal approach and puncture site for the procedure. The process involves cleansing the skin, administering a local anesthetic, and utilizing CT guidance to accurately position the markers within the thoracic cavity.