CPT® Code 32800

The procedure described by CPT® Code 32800 involves the surgical repair of a lung hernia through the chest wall. A lung hernia is a rare condition characterized by the protrusion of lung tissue through an abnormal opening in the chest wall. This condition can arise due to various factors, including thoracic trauma, infections affecting the thoracic wall, congenital weaknesses, or weaknesses resulting from previous surgical interventions such as thoracostomy tubes. The majority of lung hernias manifest through the intercostal spaces, which are the areas between the ribs. In some cases, congenital hernias may occur in the cervical region, specifically through the thoracic inlet, while diaphragmatic lung hernias are the least common type. During the repair of an intercostal lung hernia, the surgeon makes an incision in the skin over the affected intercostal space. This incision is deepened through the subcutaneous tissue and the chest wall muscles to access the hernia sac. The surgical approach involves careful dissection to free the hernia sac from surrounding tissues, ensuring that the pleura, which is the membrane surrounding the lungs, is also separated from the periosteum of the adjacent ribs. The procedure includes incising and elevating the periosteum covering the adjacent ribs to create flaps, which are then sutured together to close the hernia defect. In some cases, the repair may be reinforced by wiring the ribs together or using muscle or synthetic materials to provide additional support. After the repair, chest tubes may be placed as necessary, and the chest incision is closed in layers to promote proper healing.