How To Use CPT Code 31511

CPT 31511 describes the procedure of laryngoscopy with the removal of a foreign body. This article will cover the official description, procedure details, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 31511?

CPT 31511 is a code used to describe a specific procedure called laryngoscopy with the removal of a foreign body. This procedure involves the use of a laryngeal mirror to examine the larynx, or voice box, and the use of forceps to remove any foreign objects that may be present.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 31511 is: ‘Laryngoscopy, indirect; with removal of foreign body.’

3. Procedure

1. During the procedure, the healthcare provider will prepare the patient and administer anesthesia if necessary.
2. Using a laryngeal mirror, the provider will insert it into the throat to visualize the larynx and hypopharyngeal structures.
3. The provider will carefully examine the larynx and vocal folds to identify any abnormalities or foreign bodies.
4. If a foreign body is detected, the provider will use forceps, typically angled Magill forceps, to safely remove it from the larynx.
5. The procedure may require additional steps depending on the specific circumstances and the nature of the foreign body.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 31511 is used when a foreign body is present in the larynx and needs to be removed. This procedure is typically performed by a healthcare provider who is trained in laryngoscopy and has the necessary equipment, such as laryngeal mirrors and forceps. The patient may require anesthesia or sedation depending on the complexity of the procedure and their individual needs.

5. When to use CPT code 31511

CPT code 31511 should be used when a healthcare provider performs laryngoscopy with the specific purpose of removing a foreign body from the larynx. It is important to accurately document the presence of the foreign body and the successful removal in the medical records.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 31511, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the procedure, including the presence of a foreign body in the larynx
• Details of the laryngoscopy procedure, including the use of a laryngeal mirror and forceps
• Description of the foreign body, including its size, location, and any complications associated with its presence
• Documentation of the successful removal of the foreign body
• Any additional procedures or interventions performed during the same session
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 31511, ensure that the procedure performed matches the description of laryngoscopy with the removal of a foreign body. It is important to accurately document the presence and removal of the foreign body in the medical records. CPT code 31511 should not be reported with other codes that describe different procedures or services.

8. Historical information

CPT 31511 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 healthcare provider performs laryngoscopy with the removal of a fish bone lodged in a patient’s larynx.
2. During a procedure, a foreign object is discovered in a patient’s larynx, and the healthcare provider successfully removes it using laryngoscopy.
3. A child presents with difficulty breathing, and laryngoscopy reveals a small toy part stuck in their larynx, which is then safely removed by the healthcare provider.
4. A patient complains of persistent coughing, and laryngoscopy identifies a piece of food obstructing their larynx, which is subsequently removed.
5. During a routine examination, a healthcare provider discovers a foreign body in a patient’s larynx and performs laryngoscopy to remove it.
6. A patient presents with hoarseness, and laryngoscopy reveals a small metal object lodged in their larynx, which is successfully removed by the healthcare provider.
7. During a procedure, a healthcare provider identifies a foreign body in a patient’s larynx and uses laryngoscopy to remove it, relieving the patient’s symptoms.
8. A child accidentally swallows a small battery, and laryngoscopy is performed to locate and remove it from the larynx.
9. A healthcare provider performs laryngoscopy on a patient who has been experiencing persistent throat pain, and a foreign body is discovered and removed.
10. During a procedure, a healthcare provider identifies a foreign object in a patient’s larynx and successfully removes it using laryngoscopy.