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Radiology Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Verify Tube Type for 32552 With 32550

Published on Mon Mar 08, 2010

Question: If we report 32552 for chest tube removal, may we also code for inserting a replacement? Arkansas Subscriber Answer: Typically, you would not bill separately for a normal chest tube removal. The procedure takes just a few seconds, and payers include your reimbursement as part of any other services provided on that date, such as E/M or in this case the new tube placement. You would use new code 32552 (Removal of indwelling tunneled pleural catheter with cuff) only if your radiologist removes a special kind of chest tube that is tunneled under the skin. If the physician removes a tunneled catheter and replaces it with a new tunneled catheter, you should bill both 32552 for the removal and 32550 (Insertion of indwelling tunneled pleural catheter with cuff) for the placement. If the physician removes a tunneled catheter and replaces it in the same location with a non-tunneled chest [...]
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