How To Use CPT Code 31515

CPT 31515 describes the use of a laryngoscope to directly visualize the larynx and perform aspiration if necessary. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 31515?

CPT 31515 involves the use of a laryngoscope to directly examine the larynx and potentially perform aspiration. This code may or may not include tracheoscopy, which allows visualization of the trachea. It is important to note that CPT 31515 is specific to the aspiration procedure.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 31515 is: ‘Laryngoscopy direct, with or without tracheoscopy; for aspiration.’

3. Procedure

1. During the procedure, the healthcare provider inserts a laryngoscope into the patient’s throat to directly visualize the larynx.
2. The provider uses the laryngoscope to identify any semisolids or fluids present in the larynx.
3. If necessary, the provider may use an aspirator to remove the material and clear the area.
4. In some cases, the provider may also perform tracheoscopy to visualize the trachea and detect any abnormalities.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 31515 is typically performed when there is a need to directly visualize the larynx and perform aspiration. This procedure may be necessary in cases where there are fluids or semisolids present in the larynx that need to be cleared. It is important to note that the use of a laryngoscope and potential tracheoscopy are key components of this procedure.

5. When to use CPT code 31515

CPT code 31515 should be used when a healthcare provider performs a direct laryngoscopy with or without tracheoscopy specifically for aspiration purposes. It is important to ensure that the procedure is documented accurately and that the use of a laryngoscope and potential tracheoscopy is clearly indicated.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 31515, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the procedure and the need for aspiration
• Use of a laryngoscope and potential tracheoscopy
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Findings during the procedure, including any fluids or semisolids present
• Details of the aspiration procedure, if performed
• Any additional procedures or interventions performed, such as tracheoscopy
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 31515, it is important to ensure that the procedure performed aligns with the description of the code. The use of a laryngoscope and potential tracheoscopy should be clearly documented. It is also important to follow any specific guidelines provided by payers regarding the reporting of this code. Additionally, it is important to review any bundling or unbundling rules that may apply to this procedure.

8. Historical information

CPT 31515 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 a direct laryngoscopy with aspiration to remove fluids from a patient’s larynx.
2. During a procedure, a laryngoscope is used to visualize the larynx and perform aspiration on a patient with a foreign body obstruction.
3. A healthcare provider performs a direct laryngoscopy with tracheoscopy to examine the larynx and trachea for any abnormalities.
4. During a procedure, a laryngoscope is used to visualize the larynx and perform aspiration on a patient with a suspected infection.
5. A healthcare provider performs a direct laryngoscopy with tracheoscopy to examine the larynx and trachea for signs of inflammation.
6. During a procedure, a laryngoscope is used to visualize the larynx and perform aspiration on a patient with excessive mucus in the airway.
7. A healthcare provider performs a direct laryngoscopy with tracheoscopy to examine the larynx and trachea for signs of trauma.
8. During a procedure, a laryngoscope is used to visualize the larynx and perform aspiration on a patient with a suspected tumor.
9. A healthcare provider performs a direct laryngoscopy with tracheoscopy to examine the larynx and trachea for signs of vocal cord dysfunction.
10. During a procedure, a laryngoscope is used to visualize the larynx and perform aspiration on a patient with excessive saliva production.