Coding Ahead
CasePilot
Medical Coding Assistant
Case2Code
Search and Code Lookup Tool
RedactPHI
HIPAA-Compliant PHI Redaction
DetectICD10CM
ICD-10-CM Code Detection
Log in Register free account
1 code page views remaining. Guest accounts are limited to 1 page view. Register free account to get 5 more views.
Log in Register free account
Code deleted, use 31647-31649

Official Description

Bronchoscopy, rigid or flexible, including fluoroscopic guidance, when performed; with removal of bronchial valve(s), each additional lobe (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 0252T involves the removal of bronchial valves using either a rigid or flexible bronchoscope, which is a specialized instrument designed for visualizing the airways. Bronchial valves are devices implanted in the bronchial passages to manage conditions such as obstructive lung diseases. However, complications or a lack of patient benefit may necessitate their removal. The bronchoscope is inserted through the patient's nose or mouth and navigated through the oropharynx and trachea, ultimately reaching the mainstem bronchus, which branches into the right and left lungs. Fluoroscopic guidance may be utilized during this procedure to enhance visualization and ensure accurate placement of the bronchoscope. Once the bronchoscope is positioned in the segmental or subsegmental bronchus where the valve is located, the valve and its surrounding structures are carefully examined. The central rod of the valve is then grasped with biopsy forceps, which facilitates the collapse of the valve, allowing for its removal. After the valve is extracted, the bronchoscope is reinserted to inspect the bronchial area for any signs of injury or complications. Finally, the bronchoscope is withdrawn, and a thorough examination of the bronchi, trachea, and oropharynx is conducted to ensure the patient's airways are clear and free of any obstructions.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure described by CPT® Code 0252T is indicated for patients who have bronchial valves that may be causing complications or are no longer providing a benefit to the patient. The specific indications for performing this procedure include:

  • Complications from Bronchial Valves The presence of adverse effects or complications arising from the implanted bronchial valves, which may include obstruction, infection, or other respiratory issues.
  • Lack of Patient Benefit Situations where the bronchial valves are not improving the patient's respiratory condition or quality of life, necessitating their removal.

2. Procedure

The procedure for the removal of bronchial valves using CPT® Code 0252T involves several critical steps, which are detailed as follows:

  • Step 1: Preparation and Anesthesia The patient is prepared for the procedure, which may involve administering local anesthesia or sedation to ensure comfort during the bronchoscopy.
  • Step 2: Insertion of the Bronchoscope A rigid or flexible bronchoscope is inserted through the patient's nose or mouth. The bronchoscope is carefully advanced through the oropharynx and trachea, navigating towards the right or left mainstem bronchus.
  • Step 3: Fluoroscopic Guidance Fluoroscopic guidance may be employed to assist in accurately positioning the bronchoscope within the bronchial tree, particularly when accessing the segmental or subsegmental bronchus containing the valve.
  • Step 4: Visualization and Evaluation Once the bronchoscope is in place, the valve and surrounding structures are visualized and evaluated for any abnormalities or complications.
  • Step 5: Grasping the Valve The central rod of the bronchial valve is grasped using biopsy forceps. This action causes the valve to collapse, facilitating its removal.
  • Step 6: Removal of the Valve The collapsed valve is then carefully removed from the bronchial passage.
  • Step 7: Post-Removal Examination After the valve is extracted, the bronchoscope is reinserted into the segmental or subsegmental bronchus to examine the area for any signs of injury or complications resulting from the valve removal.
  • Step 8: Withdrawal and Final Examination The bronchoscope is withdrawn, and a thorough examination of the bronchi, trachea, and oropharynx is conducted to ensure that the airways are clear and free of obstructions.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care following the removal of bronchial valves includes monitoring the patient for any immediate complications, such as bleeding or respiratory distress. Patients may be observed for a period to ensure stable vital signs and adequate oxygenation. Instructions regarding activity restrictions and follow-up appointments may be provided to ensure proper recovery. Additionally, any findings from the procedure should be documented in the patient's medical record for future reference and continuity of care.

Short Descr REMOV BRONCH VALVE ADDL
Medium Descr BRONCHOSCOPY REMOVAL BRONCH VALVE EA ADDL LOBE
Long Descr Bronchoscopy, rigid or flexible, including fluoroscopic guidance, when performed; with removal of bronchial valve(s), each additional lobe (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)
Status Code Carriers Price the Code
Global Days YYY - Carrier Determines Whether Global Concept Applies
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 0 - No payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Discontinued Code
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) none
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 41 - Other non-OR therapeutic procedures on respiratory system
Date
Action
Notes
2013-01-01 Deleted Code deleted, use 31647-31649
2011-01-01 Added Added
Code
Description
CasePilot

Get instant expert-level medical coding assistance.

Ask about:
CPT Codes Guidelines Modifiers Crosswalks NCCI Edits Compliance Medicare Coverage
Example: "What is CPT code 99213?" or "Guidelines for E/M services"