How To Use CPT Code 31561

CPT 31561 describes the operative procedure of laryngoscopy with arytenoidectomy, 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 31561?

CPT 31561 can be used to describe a specific operative procedure called laryngoscopy with arytenoidectomy. This procedure involves the use of a laryngoscope to directly view the larynx and adjacent structures, and the excision of the arytenoids cartilage located at the back of the voice box. The procedure is performed under the guidance of an operating microscope or telescope.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 31561 is: ‘Laryngoscopy, direct, operative, with arytenoidectomy; with operating microscope or telescope. Note: Do not report code 69990 in addition to code 31561.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient and administers anesthesia.
2. A laryngoscope is inserted into the throat to directly view the laryngeal and hypopharyngeal structures.
3. The provider identifies the arytenoids cartilage, located at the back of the voice box.
4. Under the guidance of an operating microscope or telescope, the provider makes an incision in the aryepiglottic fold, which is the opening of the larynx.
5. The provider releases the soft tissues and muscles, and removes the arytenoid using microsurgery or laser techniques.
6. If necessary, the provider closes the incision with sutures.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 31561 is performed on patients who require laryngoscopy with arytenoidectomy to improve air flow through the airway. The procedure is typically performed by a provider who is experienced in using an operating microscope or telescope. It is important to note that code 69990 should not be reported in addition to code 31561.

5. When to use CPT code 31561

CPT code 31561 should be used when a provider performs laryngoscopy with arytenoidectomy using an operating microscope or telescope. This code accurately describes the specific procedure being performed. It is important to review the documentation and ensure that the procedure meets the criteria outlined in the official description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 31561, the provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the procedure
• Details of the laryngoscopy, including the use of an operating microscope or telescope
• Description of the arytenoidectomy procedure
• Any additional procedures performed, if applicable
• Any complications or unexpected findings
• Signature of the performing provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 31561, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria outlined in the official description. It is important to accurately document and code the procedure to avoid any potential billing errors. Code 69990 should not be reported in addition to code 31561.

8. Historical information

CPT code 31561 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 provider performs laryngoscopy with arytenoidectomy using an operating microscope to improve air flow in a patient with vocal cord dysfunction.
2. During a surgical procedure, a provider uses a telescope to perform laryngoscopy with arytenoidectomy to address airway obstruction in a patient with bilateral vocal cord paralysis.
3. A patient with recurrent respiratory papillomatosis undergoes laryngoscopy with arytenoidectomy using an operating microscope to remove abnormal growths and improve breathing.
4. A provider performs laryngoscopy with arytenoidectomy using a telescope to treat a patient with laryngeal stenosis and restore normal airway function.
5. During a surgical procedure, a provider uses an operating microscope to perform laryngoscopy with arytenoidectomy to address vocal cord nodules in a patient with hoarseness.
6. A patient with laryngeal cancer undergoes laryngoscopy with arytenoidectomy using a telescope to remove the affected tissue and improve breathing.
7. A provider performs laryngoscopy with arytenoidectomy using an operating microscope to address vocal cord polyps in a patient with voice changes.
8. During a surgical procedure, a provider uses a telescope to perform laryngoscopy with arytenoidectomy to treat a patient with laryngeal trauma and restore normal airway function.
9. A patient with laryngeal papilloma undergoes laryngoscopy with arytenoidectomy using an operating microscope to remove the abnormal growths and improve breathing.
10. A provider performs laryngoscopy with arytenoidectomy using a telescope to address vocal cord cysts in a patient with voice disturbances.