How To Use CPT Code 31300

CPT 31300 describes a surgical procedure that involves the removal of a tumor or laryngocele from the larynx, along with the possibility of performing a cordectomy. This article will provide an overview of CPT code 31300, including its official description, the procedure itself, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 31300?

CPT 31300 is a code used to describe a surgical procedure that involves making an incision in the voice box (larynx) and removing a tumor or laryngocele. In some cases, the procedure may also require the removal of all or part of a vocal cord, which is known as a cordectomy. This code is used to report the surgical removal of these abnormalities from the larynx.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 31300 is: ‘Laryngotomy (thyrotomy, laryngofissure), with removal of tumor or laryngocele, cordectomy.’

3. Procedure

1. The surgeon begins by preparing the patient and administering anesthesia.
2. A tracheostomy is performed to ensure the patient can breathe during the surgery.
3. An incision is made in the neck, specifically over the thyroid cartilage.
4. The surgeon then splits the thyroid cartilage in the midline to access the larynx.
5. The larynx is exposed, and the tumor or laryngocele is identified and excised.
6. If necessary, the surgeon may also remove all or part of a vocal cord (cordectomy).
7. The surgical wound is closed using sutures.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 31300 is used when a patient requires the surgical removal of a tumor or laryngocele from the larynx. The procedure may also involve a cordectomy, which is the removal of all or part of a vocal cord. It is important to note that this code should only be used for the specific circumstances described and should not be reported for other procedures or conditions.

5. When to use CPT code 31300

CPT code 31300 should be used when a surgeon performs a laryngotomy with the removal of a tumor or laryngocele, along with the possibility of a cordectomy. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description before reporting it.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 31300, the surgeon must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis necessitating the surgical removal of the tumor or laryngocele
• Details of the procedure performed, including any cordectomy if applicable
• Date of the surgery
• Any additional relevant information or complications encountered during the procedure
• Signature of the surgeon performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 31300, it is important to ensure that the procedure performed aligns with the specific criteria outlined in the code description. Additionally, it is crucial to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer or coding guidelines. It is also important to note that CPT code 31300 should not be reported with other codes unless they are performed in conjunction with the procedure and meet the necessary criteria.

8. Historical information

CPT code 31300 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code description was updated on January 1, 2018, to include the removal of a tumor or laryngocele, along with the possibility of a cordectomy.

9. Examples

1. A surgeon performs a laryngotomy with the removal of a tumor from the larynx, without the need for a cordectomy.
2. A patient undergoes a laryngotomy with the removal of a laryngocele from the larynx, along with a cordectomy.
3. A surgeon performs a laryngotomy with the removal of a tumor from the larynx, along with a partial laryngectomy.
4. A patient requires a laryngotomy with the removal of a laryngocele from the larynx, along with a total laryngectomy.
5. A surgeon performs a laryngotomy with the removal of a tumor from the larynx, and a tracheostomy is also performed to assist with breathing during the procedure.
6. A patient undergoes a laryngotomy with the removal of a laryngocele from the larynx, and a tracheostomy is performed to ensure proper breathing during the surgery.
7. A surgeon performs a laryngotomy with the removal of a tumor from the larynx, along with a cordectomy and a tracheostomy.
8. A patient requires a laryngotomy with the removal of a laryngocele from the larynx, along with a partial laryngectomy and a tracheostomy.
9. A surgeon performs a laryngotomy with the removal of a tumor from the larynx, along with a total laryngectomy and a tracheostomy.
10. A patient undergoes a laryngotomy with the removal of a laryngocele from the larynx, and a tracheostomy is performed to ensure proper breathing during the surgery.