CPT code 32652 identifies a video-assisted thoracoscopic decortication procedure in which the provider removes the fibrous pleural peel and adhesions to free the lung and improve expansion. This code captures a commonly performed thoracic surgical intervention for trapped lung or organized pleural disease and is relevant to hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers, and payers managing high-acuity procedural care. Nationally, accurate coding for this procedure affects inpatient and outpatient surgical claims, resource use, and authorization workflows.

Key payers in the discussion include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a clinical description of the service, typical sites of service, and the common modifiers associated with reporting surgical services for this code. The publication summarizes coding considerations, typical clinical indications, and operational implications for billing and utilization management across major payers. It also outlines what to expect in documentation and claims submission when this invasive thoracoscopic decortication is performed.

This summary is intended for clinicians, coding professionals, and policy analysts seeking a concise reference on the clinical and billing identity of CPT code 32652 and its role in surgical thoracic care.