How To Use CPT Code 31070

CPT 31070 describes a procedure known as sinusotomy frontal, which involves creating an opening into the frontal sinus, located above the eye’s orbits. 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 31070?

CPT 31070 is a code used to describe a specific procedure called sinusotomy frontal. This procedure involves creating an opening into the frontal sinus, which is an air space located on each side of the forehead’s frontal bone, above the eye’s orbits. It is important to note that this code specifically refers to an external, simple sinusotomy, also known as a trephine operation.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 31070 is: ‘Sinusotomy frontal; external, simple (trephine operation).’ This procedure involves puncturing the skull to create an opening into the frontal sinus.

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making an incision approximately 1 cm under the inner side of the eyebrow.
2. Next, a small hole is drilled in the front wall of the frontal sinus.
3. If there is pus present in the sinus, the provider drains it out using a needle and sends the material for pathological analysis.
4. To clear any purulent material, saline solution is sprayed into the frontal sinus.
5. To improve drainage, one or more catheters may be inserted into the orbit.
6. Throughout the procedure, the provider takes precautions to avoid injury to the supraorbital and supratrochlear nerves.
7. The goal of this procedure is to treat nonacute sinusitis.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 31070 is performed on patients with nonacute sinusitis who require an external, simple sinusotomy to create an opening into the frontal sinus. The procedure is typically performed by a qualified healthcare professional who has the necessary training and expertise in performing trephine operations. It is important to note that this code represents a unilateral service, meaning it is performed on one side only.

5. When to use CPT code 31070

CPT code 31070 should be used when a provider performs an external, simple sinusotomy specifically on the frontal sinus. It is important to note that if the provider performs nasal/sinus endoscopy with frontal sinus exploration and tissue removal, CPT code 31276 should be used instead.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 31070, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of nonacute sinusitis
• Details of the procedure, including the incision, drilling of the hole, drainage of pus, and insertion of catheters
• Date of the procedure
• Any complications or adverse events
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 31070, it is important to ensure that the procedure is performed by a qualified healthcare professional and that the documentation supports the use of this specific code. Modifier 50 should be appended if the procedure is performed bilaterally, and modifiers RT/LT can be used based on payer preference. It is also important to note that CPT code 31070 should not be reported with CPT codes 31276 or any other codes related to nasal/sinus endoscopy with frontal sinus exploration.

8. Historical information

CPT code 31070 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 patient with chronic nonacute sinusitis undergoes a sinusotomy frontal procedure to create an opening into the frontal sinus.
2. A provider performs a trephine operation on a patient with recurrent frontal sinus infections.
3. A sinusotomy frontal is performed on a patient with frontal sinusitis to alleviate symptoms and improve drainage.
4. A provider performs an external, simple sinusotomy on a patient with chronic sinusitis affecting the frontal sinus.
5. A patient with nonacute sinusitis undergoes a trephine operation to treat their condition.
6. A provider performs a sinusotomy frontal procedure on a patient with frontal sinus disease.
7. A sinusotomy frontal is performed on a patient with chronic sinusitis to improve sinus drainage.
8. A provider performs an external, simple sinusotomy on a patient with frontal sinusitis to relieve symptoms.
9. A patient with recurrent frontal sinus infections undergoes a trephine operation to address their condition.
10. A sinusotomy frontal procedure is performed on a patient with chronic nonacute sinusitis to create an opening into the frontal sinus.