How To Use CPT Code 30130

CPT 30130 describes the excision of the inferior turbinate, either partially or completely, using any method. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 30130?

CPT 30130 is used to describe the excision of the inferior turbinate, which may be performed partially or completely, using any method. This code is used when the otolaryngologist removes the entire turbinate, including the mucosa, tissue, and bones, to address airway obstruction caused by turbinate hypertrophy.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 30130 is: ‘Excision inferior turbinate, partial or complete, any method. Note: For excision of superior or middle turbinate, use 30999.’

3. Procedure

1. The otolaryngologist administers general anesthesia to the patient.
2. Using turbinate scissors, the physician removes the entire inferior turbinate, including the mucosa, tissue, and bones.
3. If necessary, the physician performs an out-fracture of the inferior turbinate to prevent adhesions.
4. Hemostasis is achieved, and the incisions are closed.
5. Note that the use of an endoscope is not billed separately for this procedure.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 30130 is performed when there is hypertrophy of the inferior turbinate, leading to airway obstruction. The otolaryngologist removes the entire turbinate, including the mucosa and bone, to address this condition. It is important to note that CPT 30130 is specifically for the excision of the inferior turbinate and should not be used for the excision of the superior or middle turbinate.

5. When to use CPT code 30130

CPT code 30130 should be used when the otolaryngologist performs the excision of the inferior turbinate, either partially or completely, using any method. It is important to ensure that the procedure involves the removal of the mucosa and bone of the inferior turbinate specifically.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 30130, the otolaryngologist must document the following information:

• Indication for the excision of the inferior turbinate
• Details of the procedure, including the method used
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional procedures performed, if applicable
• Signature of the otolaryngologist performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 30130, ensure that the procedure involves the excision of the inferior turbinate, either partially or completely, using any method. It is important to note that CPT 30130 should not be reported for the excision of the superior or middle turbinate. Additionally, if the removal of the middle turbinate is necessary for accessing the vault of the nose to repair a CSF leak from the sphenoid sinus, CPT code 30999 should be reported instead.

8. Historical information

CPT 30130 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. An otolaryngologist performs the excision of the inferior turbinate, completely removing the mucosa and bone to address airway obstruction caused by turbinate hypertrophy.
2. During the procedure, the otolaryngologist uses a specific method to excise the inferior turbinate partially, preserving some of the turbinate while addressing the patient’s condition.
3. In a complex case, the otolaryngologist performs the excision of the inferior turbinate using a combination of methods, ensuring the complete removal of the turbinate to alleviate airway obstruction.
4. An otolaryngologist performs the excision of the inferior turbinate, completely removing the mucosa and bone, and also performs an out-fracture of the turbinate to prevent adhesions.
5. During the procedure, the otolaryngologist uses advanced techniques to excise the inferior turbinate, ensuring optimal results for the patient’s airway obstruction.
6. In a revision case, the otolaryngologist performs the excision of the inferior turbinate, addressing complications from a previous procedure and improving the patient’s airway function.
7. An otolaryngologist performs the excision of the inferior turbinate, completely removing the mucosa and bone, and also uses a silastic splint to prevent adhesions and promote proper healing.
8. During the procedure, the otolaryngologist utilizes specialized instruments to excise the inferior turbinate, ensuring precise removal of the turbinate tissue and bone.
9. In a challenging case, the otolaryngologist performs the excision of the inferior turbinate, employing innovative techniques to address the patient’s unique anatomical considerations and achieve optimal outcomes.
10. An otolaryngologist performs the excision of the inferior turbinate, completely removing the mucosa and bone, and also performs additional procedures to address other nasal conditions and improve the patient’s overall nasal function.