CPT® Code 32940

The procedure described by CPT® Code 32940 refers to pneumonolysis, which is a surgical technique aimed at collapsing a portion of the lung to treat conditions such as pulmonary tuberculosis. In this specific procedure, the pneumonolysis is performed extraperiosteally, meaning that the surgical approach involves working outside the periosteum, the membrane covering the bones. The goal of this intervention is to create a controlled collapse of one side of the chest, which can help in managing the complications associated with pulmonary tuberculosis. The procedure involves a significant incision and dissection of various anatomical structures, including the skin, muscles, and ribs, to access the lung tissue. The removal of a section of the third rib, and potentially a portion of the fourth rib, is necessary to facilitate the dissection of the lung from the chest wall. This meticulous process allows the surgeon to free the diseased lung tissue from its attachments, ultimately leading to the desired lung collapse. The procedure concludes with the maintenance of this collapse by either filling the intrathoracic space with air or packing it with gauze or other materials, ensuring that the lung remains in its collapsed state for effective treatment.