CPT® 2013: Pleural Aspiration and Drainage Will Be Easier to Code in 2013

Why This Topic Matters

The article matters because it highlights a transition in the CPT code set for pleural procedures and chest tube insertion, which affects how coders interpret procedure documentation in 2013. It also places the changes in the context of broader CPT trends and helps readers recognize that the article is about code-set updates rather than a single clinical service.

Article Sections

1. Look at Lung Additions, Deletions, and Revisions, Too

   Introduces related CPT 2013 updates involving pleural and lung procedure coding. The section frames the scope of deletions, additions, and revisions discussed in the article.

2. Deleted

   Summarizes the procedures and code categories being removed in the updated CPT edition. The discussion focuses on how the code structure changes from the prior year.

3. Added

   Describes the new procedure codes introduced for pleural aspiration and drainage in CPT 2013. The section notes that the update includes options differentiated by imaging guidance and catheter use.

4. Revised

   Covers wording changes made to an existing chest tube insertion code. The section explains that the article highlights the revised terminology as part of the 2013 update.

5. Matching Codes to Procedures Should Be Simpler

   Discusses the general coding impact of the CPT 2013 changes and the rationale for why the updated structure is easier to apply. The section places the revisions in a practical coding context.

6. Aspiration vs. indwelling catheter

   Addresses the distinction between procedural categories within the pleural drainage updates. The section explains the broader concept that the article uses to organize the code changes.

7. Needle/catheter aspiration

   Focuses on coding considerations related to the method used for pleural aspiration. The discussion is limited to the way the article separates procedure types.

8. Imaging guidance

   Reviews how imaging guidance is handled in the updated CPT structure. The section places the guidance change within the broader 2013 interventional coding trend.

9. Don't forget 32551 revision

   Returns to the revised chest tube insertion code and its place in the 2013 update. The section reinforces that this code is part of the procedural coding changes covered by the article.