How To Use CPT Code 31520

CPT 31520 describes the direct laryngoscopy procedure, which involves the use of a laryngoscope to examine the larynx and potentially the trachea. This article will cover the description, official details, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 31520?

CPT 31520 is a code used to describe the direct laryngoscopy procedure. During this procedure, a healthcare provider uses a laryngoscope to directly visualize the larynx, which is the voice box. The provider may also perform tracheoscopy to examine the trachea, which is the windpipe. This code is specifically applicable for diagnostic procedures performed on infants who are 30 days old or younger.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 31520 is: ‘Laryngoscopy direct, with or without tracheoscopy; diagnostic, newborn.’ It is important to note that modifier 63 should not be reported in conjunction with this code.

3. Procedure

1. When performing a direct laryngoscopy, the healthcare provider prepares and anesthetizes the patient appropriately.
2. The provider then inserts a laryngoscope into the throat to visualize the laryngeal and hypopharyngeal structures.
3. If necessary, the provider may also perform tracheoscopy to examine the interior of the trachea.
4. This procedure is typically performed on infants who are 30 days old or younger.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 31520 is applicable for diagnostic procedures performed on infants who are 30 days old or younger. It is important to note that modifier 63 should not be reported in conjunction with this code.

5. When to use CPT code 31520

CPT code 31520 should be used when a healthcare provider performs a direct laryngoscopy procedure on an infant who is 30 days old or younger. It is important to ensure that the procedure is performed for diagnostic purposes and not for any other reason.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 31520, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• The patient’s age, confirming that they are 30 days old or younger
• A detailed description of the direct laryngoscopy procedure performed
• Any findings or abnormalities observed during the procedure
• Any additional procedures performed, such as tracheoscopy
• The date and time of the procedure
• The provider’s signature

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 31520, ensure that the procedure is performed on an infant who is 30 days old or younger. Modifier 63 should not be reported in conjunction with this code. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate billing and reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 31520 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 on a newborn infant to assess any abnormalities in the larynx.
2. During a diagnostic procedure, a laryngoscope is used to examine the larynx of an infant who is 2 weeks old.
3. A healthcare provider performs a direct laryngoscopy and tracheoscopy on a 1-day-old infant to evaluate any potential issues in the larynx and trachea.
4. Using a laryngoscope, a provider examines the larynx of a 3-week-old infant to rule out any abnormalities.
5. A direct laryngoscopy is performed on a newborn baby to assess the structure and function of the larynx.
6. A healthcare provider uses a laryngoscope to visualize the larynx of a 2-day-old infant and identify any potential issues.
7. During a diagnostic procedure, a provider performs a direct laryngoscopy on a 1-week-old infant to evaluate the laryngeal structures.
8. A direct laryngoscopy is performed on a newborn baby to assess the larynx and detect any abnormalities.
9. Using a laryngoscope, a healthcare provider examines the larynx of a 4-day-old infant to ensure normal function.
10. A provider performs a direct laryngoscopy on a 2-week-old infant to investigate any potential issues in the larynx.