The tests most commonly used to diagnose and evaluate pleural effusion include:
“No sizeable pleural effusion or pneumothorax identified” makes more sense. Which means neither a pleural effusion or pneumothorax is seen. The use of the word “sizeable” could just be a speaking style or could be suggesting there are some minor limitations to the xrays.
Types of pleural effusions
Pleural effusion in other conditions classified elsewhere J91. 8 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes. The 2022 edition of ICD-10-CM J91. 8 became effective on October 1, 2021.
(PLOOR-ul eh-FYOO-zhun) An abnormal collection of fluid between the thin layers of tissue (pleura) lining the lung and the wall of the chest cavity.
A pleural effusion is a buildup of fluid between the layers of tissue that line the lungs and chest cavity.
The 2022 edition of ICD-10-CM Z48. 813 became effective on October 1, 2021. This is the American ICD-10-CM version of Z48.
There are two types of pleural effusions: transudative and exudative.
Pleural effusion has a wide differential diagnosis. Its most common causes are congestive heart failure, cancer, pneumonia, and pulmonary embolism.
Pleural effusion occurs when fluid builds up in the space between the lung and the chest wall. This can happen for many different reasons, including pneumonia or complications from heart, liver, or kidney disease.
There are two types of pleural effusion: Transudative pleural effusion is caused by fluid leaking into the pleural space. This is from increased pressure in the blood vessels or a low blood protein count. Heart failure is the most common cause.
Pleural effusion - excess fluid in the pleural space. Pneumothorax - buildup of air or gas in the pleural space. Hemothorax - buildup of blood in the pleural space.
Thoracentesis CPT code 32554 and 32555 description Code 32556 or 32557 are used for percutaneous placement of an indwelling pleural drainage tube. Codes 32555 and 32557 include the imaging guidance (fluoroscopic, ultrasound, CT, or MRI).
32555 is for puncture of the pleural space with the insertion of a needle or catheter placed for aspiration of fluid. After the procedure is complete, the catheter or needle is removed. 32557 for placement of a non-tunneled chest tube into the pleural space for drainage, and will remain in pleural space.
Answer: Code 32557 describes the placement of an indwelling catheter into the pleural space with imaging guidance for drainage of air (pneumothorax), fluid or infection, and covers this procedure. Code 32551 is for “OPEN” chest tube placement, usually by a surgeon, with a large, usually about 30Fr or so chest tube.