How To Use CPT Code 31510

CPT 31510 describes the procedure of laryngoscopy with biopsy, which involves the use of a laryngeal mirror to examine the larynx and the collection of tissue samples for further analysis. This article will provide an overview of CPT code 31510, 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 31510?

CPT 31510 is used to describe the procedure of laryngoscopy with biopsy. This involves the insertion of a laryngeal mirror into the throat to visualize the larynx and the collection of tissue samples from any suspicious areas or lesions present. The purpose of this procedure is to detect any abnormalities or diseases in the larynx and to obtain samples for further analysis.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 31510 is: ‘Laryngoscopy, indirect; with biopsy.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient for the procedure, ensuring appropriate anesthesia and positioning.
2. A laryngeal mirror is inserted into the throat, allowing the provider to visualize the larynx and hypopharyngeal structures.
3. A light source is used to enhance the visualization of the vocal folds and other structures.
4. The provider uses biopsy forceps to collect tissue samples from any suspicious areas or lesions.
5. The collected tissue samples are sent to a laboratory for further analysis to detect any disease conditions.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 31510 is performed when there is a need to examine the larynx and collect tissue samples for biopsy. This procedure is typically done when there are suspected abnormalities or lesions in the larynx that require further investigation. It is important to note that this procedure should be performed by a qualified healthcare professional who has the necessary expertise and training in laryngoscopy and biopsy techniques.

5. When to use CPT code 31510

CPT code 31510 should be used when a provider performs laryngoscopy with biopsy to examine the larynx and collect tissue samples. This code is appropriate when there is a need to investigate suspected abnormalities or lesions in the larynx. It is important to ensure that the documentation supports the medical necessity of the procedure and that it is performed by a qualified healthcare professional.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 31510, the following documentation is required:

• Indication for the procedure, including the suspected abnormalities or lesions in the larynx
• Description of the procedure performed, including the use of a laryngeal mirror and biopsy forceps
• Date of the procedure
• Findings from the procedure, including any tissue samples collected
• Signature of the performing healthcare professional

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 31510, it is important to ensure that the procedure is performed by a qualified healthcare professional and that the documentation supports the medical necessity of the procedure. It is also important to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer. CPT code 31510 should not be reported with other codes unless there are separate and distinct procedures performed during the same encounter.

8. Historical information

CPT code 31510 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 presents with persistent hoarseness, and the provider performs laryngoscopy with biopsy to investigate the cause of the symptoms.
2. During a routine examination, the provider identifies a suspicious lesion in the larynx and performs laryngoscopy with biopsy to obtain a tissue sample for further analysis.
3. A patient with a history of laryngeal cancer undergoes regular follow-up examinations, and the provider performs laryngoscopy with biopsy to monitor for any recurrence or new abnormalities.
4. A singer complains of vocal cord strain, and the provider performs laryngoscopy with biopsy to assess the vocal folds and identify any potential issues.
5. A patient with chronic cough undergoes laryngoscopy with biopsy to investigate the underlying cause of the symptoms.
6. During a diagnostic workup for a suspected laryngeal infection, the provider performs laryngoscopy with biopsy to obtain a tissue sample for culture and analysis.
7. A patient with a history of smoking presents with voice changes, and the provider performs laryngoscopy with biopsy to assess the larynx for any potential malignancies.
8. A child with recurrent throat infections undergoes laryngoscopy with biopsy to investigate the underlying cause of the infections.
9. A patient with a history of laryngeal polyps undergoes laryngoscopy with biopsy to assess the presence and characteristics of any new polyps.
10. A professional speaker experiences vocal fatigue, and the provider performs laryngoscopy with biopsy to evaluate the vocal folds and identify any potential issues.