Pulmonology Coding Alert
Do Bronchoscopy and Brushings Require Multiple Codes?
Question: A patient underwent a diagnostic endoscopy with specimen collection via brushings from both the right and left lobes. The pulmonologist then submitted the collected tissue to pathology. How do I report these procedures? Georgia Subscriber Answer: You’ll assign 31623 (Bronchoscopy, rigid or flexible, including fluoroscopic guidance, when performed; with brushing or protected brushings) to report this encounter. The pulmonologist performed the brushing along with the bronchoscopy, which CPT® bundles together in this singular code. The diagnostic portion of the service in is included in the surgical portion of the service. While you indicated the provider performed the brushings on the patient’s right and left side, you would not append modifier 50 (Bilateral procedure) or RT (Right side) and LT (Left side) to show that the pulmonologist performed the procedure on both lungs. Code 31623 is an inherently bilateral service, and additional payment is not permitted when brushings are taken from different areas of the lungs.
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