How To Use CPT Code 31541

CPT 31541 describes the operative procedure of laryngoscopy with excision of tumor and/or stripping of vocal cords or epiglottis, using an operating microscope or telescope. This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 31541?

CPT 31541 is a code used to describe a surgical procedure called laryngoscopy. During this procedure, a healthcare provider uses a laryngoscope to directly view the larynx, or voice box, of a patient. The provider may also perform excision of a tumor or stripping of the vocal cords or epiglottis. This procedure is typically done with the assistance of an operating microscope or telescope.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 31541 is: ‘Laryngoscopy, direct, operative, with excision of tumor and/or stripping of vocal cords or epiglottis; with operating microscope or telescope.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. The healthcare provider inserts a laryngoscope into the throat to directly view the laryngeal and hypopharyngeal structures.
3. The provider identifies any tumors or abnormalities in the vocal cords or epiglottis.
4. Under the guidance of an operating microscope or telescope, the provider may perform stripping of the vocal cords or epiglottis by gripping and pulling the epithelium.
5. Alternatively, the provider may choose to excise a laryngeal tumor using a scalpel, laser, or other tool.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 31541 is used when a patient requires laryngoscopy with excision of tumor and/or stripping of vocal cords or epiglottis. This procedure is typically performed on patients with tumors or abnormalities in the larynx or adjacent structures. The use of an operating microscope or telescope is also a qualifying circumstance for this code.

5. When to use CPT code 31541

CPT code 31541 should be used when a healthcare provider performs laryngoscopy with excision of tumor and/or stripping of vocal cords or epiglottis using an operating microscope or telescope. This code should not be used if the provider performs the procedure without the use of an operating microscope or telescope.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 31541, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for laryngoscopy with excision of tumor and/or stripping of vocal cords or epiglottis
• Use of an operating microscope or telescope during the procedure
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the procedure, including any tumors or abnormalities identified and the specific techniques used for excision or stripping
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 31541, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria described in the official description. The use of an operating microscope or telescope is a key factor in determining the appropriateness of this code. It is important to note that code 69990 should not be reported in addition to code 31541. Additionally, consider the use of modifiers if necessary to accurately represent the procedure performed.

8. Historical information

CPT 31541 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 laryngoscopy with excision of a tumor using an operating microscope.
2. During a laryngoscopy procedure, a provider performs stripping of the vocal cords with the assistance of a telescope.
3. A patient undergoes laryngoscopy with excision of an abnormality in the epiglottis, using an operating microscope.
4. A healthcare provider performs laryngoscopy with excision of a tumor and stripping of the vocal cords, using an operating microscope.
5. During a laryngoscopy procedure, a provider performs excision of a tumor in the larynx, using a laser and an operating microscope.
6. A patient undergoes laryngoscopy with excision of a tumor and stripping of the vocal cords, using an operating microscope.
7. A healthcare provider performs laryngoscopy with excision of a tumor and stripping of the epiglottis, using an operating microscope.
8. During a laryngoscopy procedure, a provider performs excision of a tumor in the vocal cords, using a scalpel and an operating microscope.
9. A patient undergoes laryngoscopy with excision of an abnormality in the vocal cords, using an operating microscope.
10. A healthcare provider performs laryngoscopy with excision of a tumor and stripping of the vocal cords and epiglottis, using an operating microscope.