How To Use CPT Code 31529

CPT 31529 describes the procedure of direct laryngoscopy with subsequent dilation, which involves the use of a laryngoscope to examine the larynx and adjacent structures. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 31529?

CPT 31529 is a code used to describe the procedure of direct laryngoscopy with subsequent dilation. This procedure involves the insertion of a laryngoscope into the throat to directly visualize the larynx and nearby structures. The provider may also use a dilator to widen any narrowed areas in the larynx or trachea. Tracheoscopy, which involves visualizing the interior of the trachea, may or may not be performed during this procedure.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 31529 is: ‘Laryngoscopy direct, with or without tracheoscopy; with dilation, subsequent.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient and administers anesthesia.
2. A laryngoscope is inserted into the throat to directly view the larynx and hypopharyngeal structures.
3. If necessary, the provider uses a dilator to widen any narrowed areas in the larynx or trachea.
4. Tracheoscopy may be performed to visualize the interior of the trachea, if needed.
5. The dilator and laryngoscope are removed, and the procedure is completed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 31529 is performed when there is a need to directly visualize the larynx and perform subsequent dilation. This procedure is typically done for patients with abnormal narrowing of the larynx or trachea. It is important to note that this code represents subsequent dilation, meaning it is used for follow-up procedures after the initial dilation.

5. When to use CPT code 31529

CPT code 31529 should be used when the provider performs direct laryngoscopy with subsequent dilation. It is important to ensure that the procedure involves the use of a laryngoscope to directly visualize the larynx and adjacent structures, and that subsequent dilation is performed if necessary. This code should not be used for initial dilation procedures, as there is a separate code (31528) for that purpose.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 31529, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for direct laryngoscopy with subsequent dilation
• Details of the procedure, including the use of a laryngoscope and any dilation performed
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Any additional procedures performed, such as tracheoscopy
• Any complications or adverse events that occurred
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 31529, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for this code. The provider should use a laryngoscope to directly visualize the larynx and perform subsequent dilation if necessary. It is also important to note that CPT code 31529 should not be reported with other codes for initial dilation procedures. It is recommended to review the specific guidelines and requirements of the payer when reporting this code.

8. Historical information

CPT code 31529 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been historical changes to the code, including a code change on January 1, 2002, which updated the description to include ‘with dilatation, subsequent’.

9. Examples

1. A patient with a history of laryngeal stenosis undergoes direct laryngoscopy with subsequent dilation to widen the narrowed area.
2. A provider performs direct laryngoscopy with subsequent dilation for a patient with tracheal stenosis.
3. A patient with a laryngeal lesion undergoes direct laryngoscopy with subsequent dilation and biopsy.
4. A provider performs direct laryngoscopy with subsequent dilation for a patient with a foreign body lodged in the larynx.
5. A patient with a laryngeal tumor undergoes direct laryngoscopy with subsequent dilation and tumor removal.
6. A provider performs direct laryngoscopy with subsequent dilation and tracheostomy for a patient with a laryngeal tumor and airway obstruction.
7. A patient with recurrent laryngeal stenosis undergoes direct laryngoscopy with subsequent dilation to improve breathing.
8. A provider performs direct laryngoscopy with subsequent dilation for a patient with tracheal stenosis due to scar tissue.
9. A patient with a laryngeal lesion undergoes direct laryngoscopy with subsequent dilation and biopsy to determine the nature of the lesion.
10. A provider performs direct laryngoscopy with subsequent dilation for a patient with a foreign body lodged in the larynx causing respiratory distress.