How To Use CPT Code 30802

CPT 30802 describes the ablation of the submucosal area of the inferior turbinates using various methods such as bipolar cautery, tissue volume reduction, radiofrequency ablation, or somnoplasty. 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 30802?

CPT 30802 is used to describe the ablation of the submucosal area of the inferior turbinates. This procedure involves the use of methods like bipolar cautery, tissue volume reduction, radiofrequency ablation, or somnoplasty to surgically destroy abnormal tissue or organ growth in the nasal passageway. It is important to note that CPT 30802 should not be reported in conjunction with CPT 30801, which is used for superficial ablation of the turbinates.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 30802 is: ‘Ablation, soft tissue of inferior turbinates, unilateral or bilateral, any method (eg, electrocautery, radiofrequency ablation, or tissue volume reduction); intramural (ie, submucosal).’ It is important to note that CPT 30802 should not be reported in conjunction with CPT 30801 or CPT 30930 when performed with CPT 30130 or CPT 30140.

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient and administers anesthesia.
2. The provider selects the appropriate method for ablation, such as bipolar cautery, tissue volume reduction, radiofrequency ablation, or somnoplasty.
3. The provider inserts a needle approximately 2 mm deep in the front of the tip of the inferior turbinates.
4. The provider passes current through the needles to reduce the hypertrophy of the turbinates.
5. The provider removes the needles after completing the ablation.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 30802 is performed on patients with hypertrophy or abnormal increase in the size of the submucosal layer of the inferior turbinates. The procedure is typically performed by a qualified healthcare professional who specializes in nasal procedures. It is important to note that CPT 30802 should not be reported in conjunction with CPT 30801 or CPT 30930 when performed with CPT 30130 or CPT 30140.

5. When to use CPT code 30802

CPT code 30802 should be used when the provider performs ablation of the submucosal area of the inferior turbinates using methods like bipolar cautery, tissue volume reduction, radiofrequency ablation, or somnoplasty. It is important to note that CPT 30802 should not be reported in conjunction with CPT 30801 or CPT 30930 when performed with CPT 30130 or CPT 30140.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 30802, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for ablation of the submucosal area of the inferior turbinates
• Specific method used for the ablation
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Details of the procedure, including the insertion of the needle and the use of current to reduce hypertrophy
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 30802, ensure that the procedure is performed by a qualified healthcare professional and that the documentation supports the medical necessity of the procedure. It is important to note that CPT 30802 should not be reported in conjunction with CPT 30801 or CPT 30930 when performed with CPT 30130 or CPT 30140. If there is no specific code available for the procedure, report an unlisted procedure code, such as CPT 30999.

8. Historical information

CPT 30802 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1992. There have been several code changes and updates since its addition, including changes in the description and inclusion/exclusion criteria.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs ablation of the submucosal area of the inferior turbinates using bipolar cautery to treat a patient with nasal congestion.
2. A provider uses radiofrequency ablation to perform ablation of the submucosal area of the inferior turbinates in a patient with chronic rhinitis.
3. A provider performs ablation of the submucosal area of the inferior turbinates using tissue volume reduction to alleviate symptoms of nasal obstruction in a patient with allergic rhinitis.
4. A provider uses somnoplasty to perform ablation of the submucosal area of the inferior turbinates in a patient with sleep-disordered breathing.
5. A provider performs ablation of the submucosal area of the inferior turbinates using bipolar cautery to treat a patient with recurrent epistaxis.
6. A provider uses radiofrequency ablation to perform ablation of the submucosal area of the inferior turbinates in a patient with nasal polyps.
7. A provider performs ablation of the submucosal area of the inferior turbinates using tissue volume reduction to alleviate symptoms of chronic sinusitis in a patient.
8. A provider uses somnoplasty to perform ablation of the submucosal area of the inferior turbinates in a patient with obstructive sleep apnea.
9. A provider performs ablation of the submucosal area of the inferior turbinates using bipolar cautery to treat a patient with nasal valve collapse.