How To Use CPT Code 31527

CPT 31527 describes the use of a laryngoscope to directly examine the larynx and insert an obturator. 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 31527?

CPT 31527 can be used to describe the procedure in which a healthcare provider uses a laryngoscope to directly visualize the larynx and insert an obturator. This code is used when the provider examines the larynx and may also examine the pharynx if necessary. The procedure may be performed under general anesthesia or conscious sedation.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 31527 is: ‘Laryngoscopy direct, with or without tracheoscopy; with insertion of obturator.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider prepares and anesthetizes the patient appropriately.
2. The provider inserts a laryngoscope through the patient’s mouth to directly visualize the larynx.
3. If necessary, the provider may also examine the pharynx.
4. A hollow needle is inserted into the larynx, and a wire is threaded through it.
5. The provider uses forceps to hold the end of the wire and pulls it through the laryngoscope.
6. The wire is then threaded through an obturator, which can be a natural or artificial disk or plate.
7. The wire is threaded through another needle in the upper part of the larynx.
8. The external ends of the wire are secured by the provider.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 31527 is performed when a healthcare provider needs to directly visualize the larynx and potentially the pharynx. This procedure may be necessary to detect any abnormalities or to insert an obturator. It is typically performed under general anesthesia or conscious sedation.

5. When to use CPT code 31527

CPT code 31527 should be used when a healthcare provider performs a direct laryngoscopy with or without tracheoscopy and inserts an obturator. This code is appropriate when the provider examines the larynx and potentially the pharynx, and inserts an obturator if needed. It is important to note that CPT code 31527 should not be reported with other codes for similar procedures.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 31527, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis or reason for the procedure
• Details of the laryngoscopy and tracheoscopy, if performed
• Description of the insertion of the obturator
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 31527, ensure that the procedure involves the direct visualization of the larynx and potentially the pharynx, and the insertion of an obturator. It is important to follow the specific guidelines for reporting this code and not to report it with other codes for similar procedures. Consider the location and setting of the procedure when coding.

8. Historical information

CPT 31527 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider performs a direct laryngoscopy and inserts an obturator to visualize and assess any abnormalities in the larynx.
2. During a procedure, a provider uses a laryngoscope to directly examine the larynx and inserts an obturator to close an opening.
3. A patient undergoes a direct laryngoscopy with the insertion of an obturator to detect any abnormality in the larynx.
4. A healthcare provider performs a direct laryngoscopy and examines the larynx and pharynx, inserting an obturator if necessary.
5. During a procedure, a provider uses a laryngoscope to directly visualize the larynx and inserts an obturator to assist with closing an opening.
6. A patient undergoes a direct laryngoscopy with the insertion of an obturator to assess any abnormality in the larynx.
7. A healthcare provider performs a direct laryngoscopy and examines the larynx and pharynx, inserting an obturator to address any issues.
8. During a procedure, a provider uses a laryngoscope to directly visualize the larynx and inserts an obturator to assist with closing a gap.
9. A patient undergoes a direct laryngoscopy with the insertion of an obturator to detect any abnormality in the larynx.
10. A healthcare provider performs a direct laryngoscopy and examines the larynx and pharynx, inserting an obturator if necessary.