How Much Does Insertion of Chest Tube Cost?
Also known as: Insertion of chest tube (CPT 32551)
Chest tube insertion (tube thoracostomy) to drain air, blood, or fluid from around the lung.
The total estimated cost of Insertion of Chest Tube (CPT 32551) is $481 to $901, including hospital fees, anesthesia, and supplies. The surgeon's Medicare fee alone is $143.
Total Estimated Cost of Care
This estimate includes hospital facility fees, anesthesia, and supplies .
Patient Guide: Insertion of Chest Tube
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
The doctor numbs the area on the side of your chest, makes a small incision, and inserts a tube into the space around your lung. The tube is connected to a drainage system.
How Long Does It Take?
15-30 minutes
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Collapsed lung (pneumothorax), fluid around the lung (pleural effusion), blood around the lung (hemothorax), post-trauma
How to Prepare
This is often done urgently. Local anesthesia is provided. The tube may remain for several days until the issue resolves.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Insertion of chest tube
How to Reduce Your Cost for Insertion of chest tube
Practical tips that can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars
- 1 Ask about cash-pay discounts
Many hospitals and clinics offer 20-40% discounts for self-pay patients. Always ask before scheduling.
- 2 Compare facility vs. office setting costs
Some procedures cost significantly less in an office setting than a hospital. Ask your provider about options.
- 3 Shop around — costs vary significantly
Costs can vary 2-3x between providers in the same city. Get quotes from multiple facilities.
How is the Price Calculated?
Medicare calculates procedure payments using Relative Value Units (RVUs). Each procedure has three components multiplied by a conversion factor ($33.40 in 2026) and adjusted by geographic cost indices.
Payment = Total RVU (4.28) x CF ($33.40) = $143
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Insertion of chest tube cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Insertion of chest tube is $143. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Insertion of chest tube cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Insertion of chest tube can range from 150% of Medicare to 500% of Medicare depending on the facility. Many hospitals and clinics offer self-pay discounts of 20-40% off their chargemaster price. Always ask about cash pricing before your visit.
Does insurance cover Insertion of chest tube?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Insertion of chest tube when ordered by a physician for a medically necessary reason. Your out-of-pocket cost depends on your plan's deductible, copay/coinsurance structure, and whether you use an in-network provider. Check with your insurance company before scheduling to confirm coverage and get a cost estimate.
Why does the cost vary so much by location?
Medicare adjusts payments using Geographic Practice Cost Indices (GPCIs) that reflect local differences in physician work costs, practice expenses, and malpractice insurance. Manhattan, San Francisco, and other high-cost areas pay significantly more than rural regions. Commercial insurers follow similar geographic patterns.