How To Use CPT Code 31573

CPT 31573 describes the use of a flexible laryngoscope to perform a therapeutic injection on one side of the larynx. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 31573?

CPT 31573 involves the use of a flexible laryngoscope to administer a therapeutic injection on one side of the larynx. This procedure is performed to treat muscle spasms that cause symptoms like spasmodic dysphonia or to alleviate swelling and inflammation that can lead to stenosis and hoarseness.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 31573 is: ‘Laryngoscopy, flexible; with therapeutic injection(s) (eg, chemodenervation agent or corticosteroid, injected percutaneous, transoral, or via endoscope channel), unilateral.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient and administers anesthesia.
2. A flexible fiberoptic laryngoscope is inserted through the nose to visualize the laryngeal and hypopharyngeal structures.
3. The provider injects a chemical agent, such as botulinum toxin or a corticosteroid, on one side of the larynx using a percutaneous, transoral, or endoscopic technique.
4. The larynx and related structures are examined again, and the laryngoscope is withdrawn.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 31573 is performed on patients who require therapeutic injections on one side of the larynx. This procedure is typically used to treat muscle spasms causing symptoms like spasmodic dysphonia or to alleviate swelling and inflammation leading to stenosis and hoarseness.

5. When to use CPT code 31573

CPT code 31573 should be used when a provider performs a therapeutic injection on one side of the larynx using a flexible laryngoscope. It is important to note that this code is specific to unilateral injections. If the injections are performed bilaterally or involve augmentation, a different code should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 31573, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for therapeutic injection
• Specific technique used for the injection (percutaneous, transoral, or endoscopic)
• Date and time of the procedure
• Details of the injection, including the type of chemical agent used
• Any complications or adverse reactions
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 31573, ensure that the procedure involves a therapeutic injection on one side of the larynx using a flexible laryngoscope. It is important to follow the specific documentation requirements and guidelines provided by the payer. Additionally, consider reporting any other relevant services or procedures performed during the same encounter.

8. Historical information

CPT 31573 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2017. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient with spasmodic dysphonia undergoes a therapeutic injection on one side of the larynx using a flexible laryngoscope.
2. A provider administers a corticosteroid injection on one side of the larynx to alleviate swelling and inflammation causing hoarseness.
3. A patient with stenosis receives a therapeutic injection on one side of the larynx to relieve narrowing and improve vocal function.
4. A provider uses a flexible laryngoscope to inject botulinum toxin on one side of the larynx, treating muscle spasms and improving voice quality.
5. A patient with vocal cord dysfunction undergoes a therapeutic injection on one side of the larynx to address the underlying issue.
6. A provider performs a therapeutic injection on one side of the larynx using a flexible laryngoscope to alleviate symptoms of a specific laryngeal disorder.
7. A patient with a history of recurrent laryngeal nerve damage receives a therapeutic injection on one side of the larynx to improve vocal cord function.
8. A provider administers a corticosteroid injection on one side of the larynx to reduce inflammation and swelling caused by a specific condition.
9. A patient with a vocal cord lesion undergoes a therapeutic injection on one side of the larynx to aid in the healing process.
10. A provider uses a flexible laryngoscope to inject a chemodenervation agent on one side of the larynx, temporarily paralyzing specific muscles to address a specific condition.