How To Use CPT Code 31579

CPT 31579 describes the procedure of laryngoscopy, which involves the use of a flexible or rigid laryngoscope to examine the larynx and detect any abnormalities. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 31579?

CPT 31579 is a code used to describe the procedure of laryngoscopy, which involves the use of a flexible or rigid laryngoscope to examine the larynx and detect any abnormalities. This procedure allows the healthcare provider to visualize the laryngeal and hypopharyngeal structures, including the vocal folds. Additionally, stroboscopy is performed during the procedure to examine the structure and function of the vocal cords.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 31579 is: ‘Laryngoscopy, flexible or rigid telescopic, with stroboscopy.’

3. Procedure

1. During the procedure, the healthcare provider inserts a flexible or rigid laryngoscope into the patient’s mouth or nose to visualize the laryngeal and hypopharyngeal structures.
2. Stroboscopy is performed by illuminating and vibrating the vocal folds with a bright light for a fraction of a second, allowing for the examination of the voice box structure and function.
3. The provider may record the examination for playback at varying speeds to analyze the patient’s vocal fold vibration and vocal fold closure.
4. The findings from the procedure are used to plan appropriate treatment for the patient.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 31579 is performed when a healthcare provider needs to examine the larynx and vocal cords to determine the presence of any abnormalities or conditions. This procedure is typically performed on patients who are appropriately prepped and anesthetized. It is important to note that this code specifically refers to laryngoscopy with stroboscopy, and should not be used for simply making and viewing a video of the procedure.

5. When to use CPT code 31579

CPT code 31579 should be used when a healthcare provider performs laryngoscopy with stroboscopy using a flexible or rigid laryngoscope. This code is appropriate when the provider needs to visualize the laryngeal and hypopharyngeal structures, as well as examine the vocal folds for any abnormalities or conditions.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 31579, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the procedure and the need for laryngoscopy with stroboscopy
• Details of the procedure, including the use of a flexible or rigid laryngoscope
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Findings from the examination, including any abnormalities or conditions observed
• Any additional treatment or follow-up plans based on the findings
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 31579, ensure that the procedure involves laryngoscopy with stroboscopy using a flexible or rigid laryngoscope. It is important to note that there is no specific code for videostroboscopy, so CPT code 31579 should be used for this purpose. However, it should not be reported for simply making and viewing a video of the procedure. Additionally, consider any specific guidelines or requirements from the payer when submitting the claim.

8. Historical information

CPT code 31579 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code underwent a change on January 1, 2017, where the description was updated to include the term ‘fiberoptic’.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider performs laryngoscopy with stroboscopy using a flexible laryngoscope to examine the vocal folds of a patient with hoarseness.
2. During a procedure, a provider utilizes a rigid laryngoscope to perform laryngoscopy with stroboscopy on a patient with suspected vocal cord nodules.
3. A healthcare provider performs laryngoscopy with stroboscopy using a flexible laryngoscope to examine the vocal folds of a patient with voice changes.
4. During a procedure, a provider utilizes a rigid laryngoscope to perform laryngoscopy with stroboscopy on a patient with suspected vocal cord polyps.
5. A healthcare provider performs laryngoscopy with stroboscopy using a flexible laryngoscope to examine the vocal folds of a patient with difficulty swallowing.
6. During a procedure, a provider utilizes a rigid laryngoscope to perform laryngoscopy with stroboscopy on a patient with suspected vocal cord paralysis.
7. A healthcare provider performs laryngoscopy with stroboscopy using a flexible laryngoscope to examine the vocal folds of a patient with chronic cough.
8. During a procedure, a provider utilizes a rigid laryngoscope to perform laryngoscopy with stroboscopy on a patient with suspected vocal cord papilloma.
9. A healthcare provider performs laryngoscopy with stroboscopy using a flexible laryngoscope to examine the vocal folds of a patient with voice fatigue.
10. During a procedure, a provider utilizes a rigid laryngoscope to perform laryngoscopy with stroboscopy on a patient with suspected vocal cord granuloma.