How To Use CPT Code 31380

CPT 31380 describes a specific surgical procedure known as anterovertical hemilaryngectomy. This article will provide an overview of CPT code 31380, including its official description, the procedure itself, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and similar codes.

1. What is CPT Code 31380?

CPT 31380 is a code used to describe a surgical procedure called anterovertical hemilaryngectomy. This procedure involves the removal of part of the larynx, specifically the anterior commissure where the vocal cords come together, and often a portion of the vocal cord as well. It is typically performed by a qualified healthcare professional to treat certain conditions affecting the larynx.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 31380 is: ‘Partial laryngectomy (hemilaryngectomy); anterovertical.’

3. Procedure

1. Prior to the main surgery, the patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. The healthcare professional performs a separate incision for tracheostomy, which allows the patient to breathe during the procedure.
3. An incision is made in the muscles covering the front of the neck.
4. Only part of the larynx is removed in this procedure.
5. An incision is made in the cartilage covering the larynx, and the diseased tissues, such as the anterior commissure and adjacent parts of both vocal cords, are excised.
6. The incision is closed with sutures.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 31380 is used when a patient requires a partial laryngectomy, specifically an anterovertical hemilaryngectomy. This procedure is typically performed to treat certain conditions affecting the larynx, such as tumors or other abnormalities. It is important that the healthcare professional performing the procedure is qualified and experienced in this specific surgical technique.

5. When to use CPT code 31380

CPT code 31380 should be used when a qualified healthcare professional performs an anterovertical hemilaryngectomy, which involves the removal of part of the larynx. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure and ensure that it meets the criteria outlined in the official description of CPT code 31380.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 31380, the healthcare professional must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for a partial laryngectomy
• Details of the procedure, including the specific technique used (anterovertical hemilaryngectomy)
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional relevant information, such as the size or location of the tumor or abnormality
• Signature of the healthcare professional performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 31380, it is important to ensure that the procedure performed meets the criteria outlined in the official description. Additionally, it is crucial to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer or insurance company. It is also important to note that CPT code 31380 should not be reported with other codes unless specifically instructed to do so by the payer.

8. Historical information

CPT code 31380 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. It has not undergone any updates or changes since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A qualified healthcare professional performs an anterovertical hemilaryngectomy to remove a tumor from a patient’s larynx.
2. During an anterovertical hemilaryngectomy, a portion of the vocal cord is excised to treat a specific abnormality in the larynx.
3. A patient undergoes an anterovertical hemilaryngectomy to address a recurrent condition affecting their larynx.
4. Using the technique of anterovertical hemilaryngectomy, a healthcare professional removes the anterior commissure and adjacent parts of both vocal cords to treat a specific condition.
5. During an anterovertical hemilaryngectomy, the healthcare professional excises diseased tissues from the larynx to improve the patient’s overall health and well-being.
6. A qualified healthcare professional performs an anterovertical hemilaryngectomy to address a tumor that is causing significant symptoms and complications for the patient.
7. Using the technique of anterovertical hemilaryngectomy, the healthcare professional successfully removes a tumor from the patient’s larynx, improving their quality of life.
8. A patient undergoes an anterovertical hemilaryngectomy to treat a specific condition that is affecting their ability to speak and breathe properly.
9. During an anterovertical hemilaryngectomy, the healthcare professional carefully removes the anterior commissure and adjacent parts of both vocal cords, ensuring the best possible outcome for the patient.
10. A qualified healthcare professional performs an anterovertical hemilaryngectomy to address a complex abnormality in the patient’s larynx, requiring precise surgical techniques.