How To Use CPT Code 31087

CPT 31087 describes a specific procedure known as sinusotomy frontal. This article will provide an overview of the code, including its official description, the procedure itself, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples of when CPT 31087 may be used.

1. What is CPT Code 31087?

CPT 31087 is a code used to describe a surgical procedure called sinusotomy frontal. This procedure involves making a coronal incision across the top of the scalp to gain access to the frontal sinus. The provider then creates an osteoplastic flap of the frontal bone of the forehead, excises any diseased tissues in the frontal sinus, and repositions the frontal bone flap with sutures.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 31087 is: ‘Sinusotomy frontal; nonobliterative, with osteoplastic flap, coronal incision.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making a coronal incision across the top of the scalp, typically above the ears.
2. An osteoplastic flap of the frontal bone is created to gain access to the frontal sinus.
3. The provider removes any diseased tissues, such as benign neoplasms or polyps, from the frontal sinus.
4. The frontal bone flap is then repositioned and secured with sutures.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 31087 is used when a patient requires the removal of diseased tissue from the frontal sinus. This may include benign tumors or polyps. The procedure is performed by a qualified healthcare provider and involves the use of a coronal incision and osteoplastic flap.

5. When to use CPT code 31087

CPT code 31087 should be used when a provider performs a nonobliterative frontal sinusotomy with an osteoplastic flap using a coronal incision. It is important to note that this code represents a unilateral service, meaning it is performed on one side. If the procedure is performed bilaterally, modifier 50 should be appended, or modifiers RT/LT can be used based on payer preference.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 31087, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis necessitating the frontal sinusotomy
• Description of the procedure performed, including the use of a coronal incision and osteoplastic flap
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional details or complications encountered during the surgery
• Signature of the performing provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 31087, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria outlined in the official description. It is important to follow payer guidelines regarding the use of modifiers for bilateral procedures. Additionally, be aware of any specific documentation requirements from the payer to support the claim.

8. Historical information

CPT 31087 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 sinusotomy frontal on a patient with a benign neoplasm in the frontal sinus.
2. During a sinusotomy frontal procedure, the provider removes polyps from the frontal sinus of a patient.
3. A patient undergoes a sinusotomy frontal to address chronic sinusitis in the frontal sinus.
4. A provider performs a sinusotomy frontal on a patient with recurrent frontal sinus infections.
5. During a sinusotomy frontal procedure, the provider excises a benign tumor from the frontal sinus of a patient.
6. A patient undergoes a sinusotomy frontal to remove diseased tissue from the frontal sinus.
7. A provider performs a sinusotomy frontal on a patient with a frontal sinus mucocele.
8. During a sinusotomy frontal procedure, the provider addresses a frontal sinus cyst in a patient.
9. A patient undergoes a sinusotomy frontal to remove a foreign body lodged in the frontal sinus.
10. A provider performs a sinusotomy frontal on a patient with a frontal sinus osteoma.