How To Use CPT Code 30320

CPT 30320 describes the procedure for removing a foreign body from the nasal cavity through a lateral rhinotomy. This article will cover the description, official details, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 30320?

CPT 30320 can be used to describe the removal of a foreign body from the nasal cavity through a lateral rhinotomy. This code is used when the provider creates a full thickness incision in the nose to access and remove a foreign object that is deeper and implanted within the tissues due to trauma.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 30320 is: ‘Removal foreign body, intranasal; by lateral rhinotomy.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider performs a lateral rhinotomy, which involves making an incision from the inner end of the eyebrow, moving down along the outer wall of the nose, over to the nasolabial fold, and passing along the nasal alar base to the philtrum.
2. The provider dissects the nasal soft tissue down to the level of bone to gain access to the nasal cavity.
3. The foreign body is identified and carefully dissected from the underlying tissue using forceps.
4. The wound is closed by suturing the soft tissue in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 30320 is used when a foreign body is deeply implanted within the nasal tissues due to trauma. This procedure is performed by a provider who creates a full thickness incision in the nose to access and remove the foreign object. The patient must have a documented foreign body in the nasal cavity that requires removal through a lateral rhinotomy.

5. When to use CPT code 30320

CPT code 30320 should be used when a provider performs a lateral rhinotomy to remove a foreign body from the nasal cavity. This code is specifically for cases where the foreign body is deeper and implanted within the tissues due to trauma. It should not be used for simple removal of a foreign body in an office setting (use CPT 30300) or when general anesthesia is required (use CPT 30310).

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 30320, the provider must document the following information:

• Description of the foreign body and its location within the nasal cavity
• Details of the lateral rhinotomy procedure, including the incision site and technique
• Method used to identify and dissect the foreign body
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Closure technique and materials used
• Post-procedure instructions and follow-up plans

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 30320, ensure that the procedure involves a lateral rhinotomy for the removal of a foreign body from the nasal cavity. This code should not be reported with other codes for simple intranasal foreign body removal or when general anesthesia is required. It is important to accurately document the procedure and provide any necessary supporting documentation for proper reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 30320 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs a lateral rhinotomy to remove a glass shard embedded in a patient’s nasal cavity.
2. A foreign body, such as a small toy, is deeply lodged in a child’s nasal cavity, requiring a lateral rhinotomy for removal.
3. A patient presents with a nasal foreign body that cannot be easily accessed or removed, necessitating a lateral rhinotomy procedure.
4. A provider performs a lateral rhinotomy to remove a metal fragment that has become embedded in a patient’s nasal tissues.
5. A lateral rhinotomy is performed to remove a foreign body, such as a bead, that is deeply implanted in a patient’s nasal cavity.
6. A provider uses a lateral rhinotomy approach to remove a foreign body, such as a button battery, from a patient’s nasal cavity.
7. A patient presents with a nasal foreign body that is deeply lodged and requires a lateral rhinotomy for safe and effective removal.
8. A provider performs a lateral rhinotomy to remove a foreign body, such as a piece of wood, that is causing significant discomfort and obstruction in the nasal cavity.
9. A lateral rhinotomy is performed to remove a foreign body, such as a plastic fragment, that is causing recurrent infections in the nasal cavity.
10. A provider uses a lateral rhinotomy approach to remove a foreign body, such as a fish bone, that is causing persistent pain and irritation in the nasal cavity.