19432? Removal and Reinsertion of Implant

Question:

My surgeon wants to report 19342 when a patient develops a seroma post‑reconstruction. The implant is removed, the seroma is drained, and the same implant is reinserted. Is this appropriate?

Answer:

Great question! The Breast Repair and/or Reconstruction subsection guidelines provide specific direction regarding the use of code 19342.

According to the guidelines:
“In delayed reconstruction, an implant is placed at any date separate from the mastectomy (19342). This includes placement of any new implant or replacement of an existing implant within the mastectomy defect or reconstructed breast.”

In the scenario described, the implant is temporarily removed to allow drainage of the seroma and then reinserted. Because the same implant is returned to the pocket—and no new or replacement implant is placed—19342 would not be appropriate under the guidelines.

Thank you for reaching out to KZA!

*This response is based on the best information available as of 05/07/26.