Wiki Lavage

[rufus]

Can anyone tell me the specific difference between code 31624 VS 32997. Dont have much documentation on op report. They are treating Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis if this helps. Thanks for the help!!!

 

[ndriley10]

lavage help

Generally i use 31624 for our thoracic and pulmonary doctors when they use the bronchoscope to do a saline wash of the lung and then send it for cultures. Usually the patients may have onemonia or mucus secretions affecting the airways. Sometimes it is done in conjunction with a biopsy. I've never used 32997 but it would appear that the code covers one entire lung as opposed to the bronchial aveoli. Usually 31624 is limited to a particular lobe or section of one lung not the entire lung. I hope this helps. i do not claim to be an expert by any means so anyone else feel free to chime in.

Nicole Riley, CPC