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CPT®
32602

CPT® Code 32602
Deleted

Code deleted, see 32607, 32608, 32609)

Official Description

Thoracoscopy, diagnostic (separate procedure); lungs and pleural space, with biopsy

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 32602 is known as diagnostic thoracoscopy, which may also be referred to as pleuroscopy. This minimally invasive procedure is performed to examine the lungs and pleural space for any abnormalities. During thoracoscopy, various techniques can be utilized to gain access to the pleural cavity. One common method involves blunt entry, where a clamp is passed over a rib and through the pleura, allowing for direct inspection of the pleural space to ensure there is sufficient room for the insertion of the thoracoscope. Once the scope is inserted under direct vision, the pleura and lung are thoroughly inspected, and any abnormalities are documented. In some cases, fluid may be evacuated from the pleural space using suction catheters to facilitate a clearer view. Another technique involves making a small intercostal incision in the chest wall, through which a trocar is inserted into the intercostal space, the area between two ribs. After entering the pleural space, air is injected to induce an artificial pneumothorax, which enhances visualization of the lung and pleura. An endoscope is then introduced through the trocar for a detailed examination. While diagnostic procedures are often conducted through a single incision, additional small incisions may be made to introduce other surgical instruments as needed. During the procedure, any fluid present in the chest is drained, and the lung and pleura are inspected again for abnormalities, which may include photographing lesions for further analysis. Upon completion of the examination, the thoracoscope is withdrawn, air is evacuated from the pleural space, and a chest tube is typically placed to ensure proper drainage. If a biopsy of the lung or pleura is performed, specific tools such as cusp forceps or a surgical stapling device are utilized to obtain tissue samples for further evaluation.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The diagnostic thoracoscopy procedure, as described by CPT® Code 32602, is indicated for various clinical scenarios where direct visualization of the pleural space and lung is necessary. The following conditions may warrant this procedure:

  • Suspicion of Pleural Disease - When there is a clinical suspicion of pleural effusion, pleural thickening, or other pleural pathologies that require direct assessment.
  • Unexplained Pulmonary Symptoms - In cases where patients present with unexplained respiratory symptoms, such as persistent cough, chest pain, or dyspnea, and non-invasive imaging has not provided conclusive results.
  • Need for Biopsy - When there is a need to obtain tissue samples from the lung or pleura for histopathological examination to diagnose conditions such as malignancies or infections.
  • Evaluation of Lung Lesions - To evaluate suspicious lung lesions identified on imaging studies, allowing for direct inspection and potential biopsy.

2. Procedure

The procedure for diagnostic thoracoscopy involves several key steps that ensure effective examination and potential biopsy of the lungs and pleural space. The following procedural steps are typically followed:

  • Step 1: Preparation and Anesthesia - The patient is positioned appropriately, and local anesthesia is administered to minimize discomfort during the procedure. Sedation may also be provided to ensure patient comfort.
  • Step 2: Accessing the Pleural Space - A clamp is passed over a rib and through the pleura to achieve blunt entry into the pleural cavity. Alternatively, a small intercostal incision may be made, and a trocar is inserted into the intercostal space to access the pleural space directly.
  • Step 3: Inspection of the Pleura and Lung - Once access is obtained, the pleural space is inspected for abnormalities. The thoracoscope is inserted under direct vision, allowing for a thorough examination of the pleura and lung surfaces.
  • Step 4: Fluid Management - If fluid is present in the pleural space, suction catheters may be used to evacuate it, facilitating better visualization of the lung and pleura.
  • Step 5: Inducing Pneumothorax (if applicable) - In some techniques, air is injected into the pleural space to induce an artificial pneumothorax, which enhances the visibility of the lung structures during the examination.
  • Step 6: Biopsy (if indicated) - If abnormalities are noted, a biopsy may be performed using cusp forceps, a surgical stapling device, or other biopsy tools to obtain tissue samples from the lung or pleura for further analysis.
  • Step 7: Completion of the Procedure - After the examination and any necessary biopsies are completed, the thoracoscope is withdrawn, air is evacuated from the pleural space, and a chest tube is placed to ensure proper drainage and prevent reaccumulation of fluid.

3. Post-Procedure

Following the diagnostic thoracoscopy, patients are typically monitored for any immediate complications, such as bleeding or infection. The placement of a chest tube allows for continuous drainage of any residual fluid or air, which is crucial for the patient's recovery. Patients may experience some discomfort at the incision site, which can be managed with analgesics. The expected recovery time varies, but many patients can resume normal activities within a few days, depending on their overall health and the extent of the procedure. Follow-up appointments are often scheduled to review biopsy results and assess the need for further treatment based on the findings from the thoracoscopy.
Short Descr THORACOSCOPY DIAGNOSTIC
Medium Descr THORACOSCOPY DX LUNGS&PLEURAL SPACE W/BX SPX
Long Descr Thoracoscopy, diagnostic (separate procedure); lungs and pleural space, with biopsy
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) 0 - 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 40 - Other diagnostic procedures of respiratory tract and mediastinum
Date
Action
Notes
2012-01-01 Deleted Code deleted, see 32607, 32608, 32609)
2011-01-01 Changed Short description changed.
1994-01-01 Added Code added.
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