How To Use CPT Code 31560

CPT 31560 describes the direct operative laryngoscopy procedure with arytenoidectomy. 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 31560?

CPT 31560 can be used to describe a specific surgical procedure called direct operative laryngoscopy with arytenoidectomy. This code is used when a healthcare provider uses a laryngoscope to directly view the larynx and performs an arytenoidectomy, which involves removing the arytenoids cartilage located at the back of the voice box.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 31560 is: ‘Laryngoscopy, direct, operative, with arytenoidectomy.’

3. Procedure

1. During the procedure, 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 the arytenoids cartilage and removes it, along with widening the posterior glottis using methods such as laser.
4. If necessary, the provider closes the incision with sutures.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 31560 is performed when a patient requires direct operative laryngoscopy with arytenoidectomy to improve air flow through the airway. This procedure is typically performed by a healthcare provider who is trained in laryngoscopy and has the necessary expertise to perform an arytenoidectomy.

5. When to use CPT code 31560

CPT code 31560 should be used when a healthcare provider performs a direct operative laryngoscopy with arytenoidectomy. It is important to note that this code should only be used for this specific procedure and not for any other laryngoscopy or arytenoidectomy procedures.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 31560, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Reason for performing the procedure
• Details of the laryngoscopy and arytenoidectomy performed
• Any additional procedures or techniques used during the surgery
• Any complications or unexpected findings
• Post-operative care instructions, if applicable

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 31560, ensure that the procedure performed matches the description of the code. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer and use any necessary modifiers to accurately report the procedure. Additionally, be aware of any bundling or unbundling rules that may apply to this code.

8. Historical information

CPT 31560 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code underwent a change on January 1, 2010, but the details of the change are not provided.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes direct operative laryngoscopy with arytenoidectomy to improve their airway function.
2. A healthcare provider performs a direct operative laryngoscopy with arytenoidectomy to remove a vocal cord polyp.
3. A patient with a laryngeal tumor undergoes direct operative laryngoscopy with arytenoidectomy for tumor removal.
4. A healthcare provider performs a direct operative laryngoscopy with arytenoidectomy to remove a cyst in the larynx.
5. A patient presents with a foreign body obstruction in the larynx and undergoes direct operative laryngoscopy with arytenoidectomy for its removal.
6. A healthcare provider performs a direct operative laryngoscopy with arytenoidectomy to address a laryngeal airway obstruction caused by papilloma.
7. A patient undergoes direct operative laryngoscopy with arytenoidectomy to remove a granuloma in the larynx.
8. A healthcare provider performs a direct operative laryngoscopy with arytenoidectomy to address a laryngeal web causing airway obstruction.
9. A patient with recurrent hemorrhages in the larynx undergoes direct operative laryngoscopy with arytenoidectomy for their removal.
10. A healthcare provider performs a direct operative laryngoscopy with arytenoidectomy to address a laryngeal obstruction caused by a lesion.