How To Use CPT Code 31530

CPT 31530 describes the operative procedure of laryngoscopy with foreign body removal. 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 31530?

CPT 31530 can be used to describe the operative procedure in which a healthcare provider uses a laryngoscope to directly visualize the larynx and remove any foreign bodies present. This code represents a surgical intervention to address foreign bodies in the larynx.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 31530 is: ‘Laryngoscopy, direct, operative, with foreign body removal.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider prepares the patient and administers anesthesia.
2. Using a laryngoscope, the provider inserts the instrument into the throat to directly visualize the larynx and adjacent structures.
3. If a foreign body is detected, the provider uses forceps to grasp and remove it.
4. The procedure is considered complete once the foreign body has been successfully removed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 31530 is performed when a patient has a foreign body lodged in their larynx that requires operative intervention. The procedure is typically performed in cases where other non-operative methods of removal have been unsuccessful. It is important to note that this code specifically applies to the removal of foreign bodies in the larynx.

5. When to use CPT code 31530

CPT code 31530 should be used when a healthcare provider performs a direct laryngoscopy with operative removal of a foreign body in the larynx. It is important to ensure that the procedure is specifically focused on the larynx and not other areas of the respiratory tract.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 31530, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s medical history and reason for the procedure
• Details of the laryngoscopy procedure, including the use of a laryngoscope and forceps
• Description of the foreign body and its location within the larynx
• Documentation of the successful removal of the foreign body
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 31530, ensure that the procedure involves the direct visualization and operative removal of a foreign body in the larynx. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure and any associated complications. Additionally, be aware of any specific payer guidelines or requirements for reporting this code.

8. Historical information

CPT 31530 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code underwent a change on January 1, 2010, with the addition of a descriptor specifying the removal of a foreign body.

9. Examples

1. A patient presents with a fish bone lodged in their larynx. The healthcare provider performs a direct laryngoscopy and successfully removes the foreign body.
2. During a routine examination, a healthcare provider discovers a small plastic bead stuck in a patient’s larynx. The provider performs a laryngoscopy and removes the foreign body operatively.
3. A child accidentally swallows a coin, which becomes lodged in their larynx. The healthcare provider performs a direct laryngoscopy and safely removes the foreign body.
4. A patient complains of persistent throat discomfort after accidentally inhaling a small piece of metal. The healthcare provider performs a laryngoscopy and successfully removes the foreign body from the larynx.
5. During a diagnostic procedure, a healthcare provider identifies a foreign body in a patient’s larynx. The provider performs an operative laryngoscopy and removes the foreign object.
6. A patient presents with a severe cough and difficulty breathing due to a peanut lodged in their larynx. The healthcare provider performs a direct laryngoscopy and removes the foreign body operatively.
7. After accidentally swallowing a small toy part, a child experiences discomfort and difficulty swallowing. The healthcare provider performs a laryngoscopy and successfully removes the foreign body from the larynx.
8. A patient reports persistent throat pain after accidentally ingesting a sharp object. The healthcare provider performs an operative laryngoscopy and removes the foreign body from the larynx.
9. During a routine examination, a healthcare provider discovers a button battery lodged in a patient’s larynx. The provider performs a direct laryngoscopy and removes the foreign body operatively.
10. A patient presents with a persistent cough and hoarseness after accidentally inhaling a small plastic piece. The healthcare provider performs a laryngoscopy and successfully removes the foreign body from the larynx.